Outside My Window

Closing..

2011-05-17T10:51:00.002-04:00

I think I'm going to quit posting to my Blog. I don't seem to have much to say and I don't think there is much interest for what I do post.

Maybe I'll post a picture once in a while but that's about it. Time goes too fast for me to keep up with things.

There are a thousand more blogs and web sites available on the Upper Peninsula than when I started my web site and blog. My little corner of the world gets smaller all the time.

May God Bless you all. Sue

Big Band Jazz

2011-05-13T06:00:00.000-04:00

The DePaul University Big Band Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Yamaha artist Bob Lark, will perform at Kingsford High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. on May 14th.

The DePaul University Big Band Jazz Ensemble is one of the best university jazz bands in the country. They will perform a mix of old standards and contemporary music from the Big Band and swing, rock and Latin Jazz genres. The Kingsford High School Jazz Band will open Saturday evening's concert.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Kingsford Music Boosters.
The Kingsford Jazz Band has enjoyed exceptional success this year earning a Number 1 Ratings at the Wisconsin State Music Association District and State Solo/Ensemble Competitions.

The KHS Jazz Combo is a student-directed group made up of several Jazz Band members was named, "Outstanding Jazz Combo" at the NMU Jazz Festival. The NMU Jazz Festival is open to all Upper Peninsula schools. They were one of two bands
given the honor of opening the finale concert of the NMU Jazz Festival at Kaufman Auditorium featuring Michael Philip Mossman with the NMU Jazz Band and Combo.

The KHS Jazz Combo also received separate Number 1 Ratings at this year's Wisconsin State Music Association District and State Solo/Ensemble Competitions.

Sounds like it will be a great performance all around.

Victim of High Gas Prices

2011-05-11T13:33:00.000-04:00

The 2011 Superior Bike Fest in Marquette has been canceled. They had a total of 58 riders registered and they would normally see 200 registered with a total for the race of over 500.

The Superior Bike Fest was scheduled for June 24-26 and is a three-day event with varied races. Included are 35-mile, 55-mile and 100-mile road bike races, a mountain chase race and circuit races.

One-third of the profit benefits should have benefited the YMCA Strong Kids Foundation, and the rest is used as seed money for future races and to support first aid education for the Marquette Mountain Ski Patrol.

It a great loss to the area and, unfortunately, there are probably more events like this that will also be cancelled. Better now than before the sponsors have a lot invested in the event.

Thunderstorms

2011-05-11T08:08:00.000-04:00

Most of us woke up at about 3:00 AM due to the lightening, thunder and hail. It banged and crashed for over two hours. My first thought was if power would go out again.

We need the water but not the hail so I was glad to see the hail didn't get very large and didn't last long. It didn't seem warm enough but even the weatherman can be wrong.

Greg and Cassie ran into hail on their drive back from Green Bay but it wasn't bad enough to damage the car although many cars stopped under overpasses.

Speaking of Green Bay, gas prices were cheaper there than in our area. Looks like the Pines Gas Station is letting us down. We often have gas at price listed well under the national average, sometimes the lowest across the country.

Power Outage

2011-05-10T08:01:00.000-04:00

The kids loved it, no school today. It started out with just a two hour delay but when there was no progress in getting the power back on they changed it to no school for the day. And what a day it was, warm and sunny. The grandkids were outside all day and managed to get a mild sunburn.

The power outage ran from northern Wisconsin to the Keweenaw Peninsula, from Escanaba to Ontonagon to Munising. Early morning thunderstorms in northern Wisconsin caused a large transmission line to fail resulting in the cascading shutdowns.

The Chassell area also had serious flooding on US 41 with wash outs reported on the Paradise and Massie roads.

Real Estate

2011-05-09T21:26:00.002-04:00

These are for sale by Superior National Bank but it might be an indication of what's happening in our area. Pictures can be viewed on the SNB website.

2 bedroom home on 2 acres in Pelkie, Cabbage Road, $29,000.

4 bedroom home on 12 lots with large pole barn next to the Ontonagon River, Ontonagon, $49,000.

209 E. Broad Street, L'Anse, $15,000.

212 E. Broad Street, L'Anse, $33,000.

213 E. Broad Street, L'Anse, $25,500.

220 E. Broad Street, L'Anse, $12,500.

224 E. Broad Street, L'Anse, $37,500.

1 S. 4th Street, L'Anse, 4 Bedroom on corner lot, $29,500.

Interesting.. good investment or money pit? Can't really answer that but Dave is so discussed with our weather our home many soon be for sale. I don't know where he thinks we'd move.. tornado, hurricanes, floods.. what at little cold weather considering many other places.

Restaurant Scam

2011-05-08T21:08:00.002-04:00

This is a new one for me but I guess we always need to be suspicious especially when you receive unusual phone calls.

The Iron Mountain Police Department received a call from a local restaurant concerning a call they received from someone posing as a Health Department inspector.

According to police, the caller asked that the employer enter a numeric code during a second automated call. And by entering the code, it was supposed to set up the appointment for the inspector to come to the restaurant.

This type of scam may cause the business to be signed up for an online auction and charges will be made in the business' name.

The Iron Mountain Police Department has learned that the Dickinson-Iron District Health Department does not set up inspection times over the phone or ahead of time.
Inspections by the Health Department are always unannounced.

Green Bay Packers

2011-05-07T20:55:00.001-04:00

I'm sure you've heard that the Green Bay Packers will be in Marquette to help raise money for Bay Cliff Health Camp.

General admission tickets are available for the Green Bay Packers' 2011 Tailgate Tour stop at the NMU Superior Dome. Tickets are $5 and are available at the dome.

The event runs from 4-8:30 p.m. Tuesday at the dome and the Packers are expected to arrive around 6 p.m.

The ‘Green Bay Packers Tailgate Tour’ departs Tuesday, May 10, at 8:15 a.m., for a five-day journey to Upper Michigan and Wisconsin.

Joining the tour will be Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy, linebacker Desmond Bishop, quarterback Matt Flynn and guard Josh Sitton, along with former Packers Gilbert Brown, Antonio Freeman, Dorsey Levens, Forrest Gregg and Jim Taylor.

Evening tailgate parties are set for Marquette, Mich., (May 10), Ashland (May 11), Eau Claire (May 12), Wausau (May 13) and Green Bay (May 14).

Taste of Home in Escanaba

2011-05-06T09:00:00.002-04:00

Is there a cook out there that doesn't love the Taste of Home recipes? My friends always talk about the great recipe they found in, "Taste of Home." My favorite spaghetti bake recipe came from there and it's great.

The Taste of Home Cooking show will take place May 12 at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba. The doors of the Ruth Butler Building will open at 5 p.m. and the show begins at 7.

Come early because before the start of the show, attendees will be able to browse and visit a wide variety of booths set up by vendors. There will also be music by the Next Generation Barbershop Quartet. Vendors will be from as far away as Madison, WI.

Taste of Home has been presenting live cooking demonstrations for more than 50 years. The event will be at the Ruth Butler Building with a professional kitchen set up by Pioneer TV & Appliance and Perk's Cabinetry.

The Master of Ceremonies will be Dr. James Surrel, author of the SOS (Stop Sugar Only) Diet and MISS (Making it Super Simple) Diet Maintenance programs. Dr. Surrel is a digestive health specialist with Marquette General Hospital. (You must remember I talked about Dr. Surrel's diet before!)

And there is more!! Those attending will also have an opportunity to win one of four recliners offered by Heynssens-Selin's Furniture and E&E Furniture Sleep Center.
There will be other prizes too. They will be given away in a Let's Make a Deal type contest so you should fill your purse with lots of items.. you could win you a prize for a bottle of green nail polish or a bow tie or a diaper pin or a spark plug (just kidding, they'd never ask for that.. would they?) Needless to say, I don't have the inside track. You let me know what they asked for so I can be prepared for next time.

Here are some local sponsors: Elmer's County Market, Jack's Fresh Market, Hiawatha Chef Supply, the Daily Press, Jess Events, Heynssen's-Selins, E&E Furniture, and also Pioneer Kitchen and Appliance.

Taste of Home has national sponsors too: Hungry Jack Potatoes, Weight Watchers Cheese, West Bend and Baymont Inn and Suites.

Tickets are $10, and are available at the offices of the Daily Press, Heynssens-Selin's Furniture, E&E Furniture and Sleep Center, Elmer's County Market, Hiawatha Chef Bar and Janitorial Supply and Super One Foods.

Just for fun..

2011-05-05T08:49:00.000-04:00

Hummmm... I don't think so.

The Price of Gas

2011-05-04T22:21:00.001-04:00

We were in Marquette today and took full advantage of the trip stopping at all the stores we could because we won't be making the trip often. It's a good time to make lists and more lists to be sure to get everything you want in one trip. If the price of gas doesn't go down we won't even make it out of Baraga County!

The local Tribal gas station used to sell gas for 20 cents less than other stations but right now there gas price is higher than in Chassell. Tribal members still get gas cheaper by showing their card or signing a book or something, but we aren't tribal so we pay the taxes. Gone are the days of people driving down to the casino with the excuse to fill up at their gas station. You can no longer take what you saved at the pump and dump it into a slot machine.

There was a sign at a Calumet gas station with the price of $1.94 per gallon. It wasn't surprising to see that the station had been closed for a long, long time. Please someone, take down that sign. You will give people a heart attack or cause an accident with tourist rushing to fill up.

Housing

2011-05-03T15:02:00.002-04:00

It's good news for some and bad news for others. The median sale price of homes in the Marquette area rose significantly in 2010, after a drop in 2009 of 6.8 percent. It's good news if you need to sell and if you were hoping to buy you'd better get out and look around.

The Marquette area was defined as the city of Marquette, Marquette Township, Chocolay Township and the portion of Sands Township lying north of Marquette County Road 480. The study includes information for 1983 through 2010 and includes single family residential housing and condominium units.

In 2008, the median sale price was $152,400 for the Marquette area. Median price in 2009 fell by 6.8 percent to $142,000. Last year the median sale price in Marquette area went up by $10,000 to reach $152,000.

Interestingly, in 1990 the average was $55,950 and then increased at a compounded annual rate of 5.1 percent.

The UP does not always follow national trends. Yoopers tend to buy a house and live in it for a long time, sometime for the rest of their lives. We collect too much junk to keep moving it around. (Just checking to see if anyone read this stuff.)

Passports

2011-05-02T14:53:00.000-04:00

Beginning in May, passport applications will no longer be accepted at the Dickinson County Courthouse and probably all other county clerks offices.

The service has been discontinued because of a conflict with federal policies. Passport applications may not be handled by workers who also have access to birth certificates.

Passports are available at many post offices and online for renewals. First-time passport clients are required to apply in person.

So.. for those who live in the UP, you need to plan ahead. Just thought you'd like to know of the change.

He's Crazy!

2011-05-01T23:14:00.002-04:00

Dave got tired of waiting for spring/summer. He went golfing today, heavy gloves and all. No carts were allowed. He came home complaining how cold and miserable it was. And I was supposed to sympathize with him? I think no.

How do you golf when the wind gust are 30-40 mph? Do you think I should check and see if he signed in at the golf course? He claims he wasn't the only nut out there.

Hang on to Your Hat

2011-04-30T09:54:00.001-04:00

Windy, windy, windy! Many out there are probably saying so what, at least it's not a tornado. I'll be careful who I complain to and be thankful we don't live where there are tornadoes.

The wind is blowing the deck chairs over but at least they are still on the deck and not in the neighbors yard. The poor flag pole won't take much more. It can only bend so far. I'm surprised our flag isn't in tatters. We should have taken it down!

We were lucky to keep power but the wind did claim a huge pine tree in a neighbors yard blowing it into the telephone lines. The firetrucks were there until the line was repaired. I'm sure there are many more down in the area.

May must be trying to blow out this awful April weather. Open the doors, let May in. We need some of those May flowers!

Boats on the Bay

2011-04-29T09:47:00.002-04:00

It is wonderful to see the bay dotted with fishing boats. It helps that the sun is out and the bay is glistening in the sun. It can't be very warm on the lake but it helps to have the sun out. Fishermen know to dress in layers, even in the summer.

The docks are not in at the marina so most of the boats on the lake are the small ones that fishermen launch and trailer home when they are finished. No reports on their catch but the fishing is usually better now than in the summer. The warmer the water gets the deeper and further out the fisherman need to go. (This from someone who never fishes)

Controled Burn

2011-04-28T23:02:00.000-04:00

The Ottawa National Forest, Kenton and Ontonagon Ranger Districts, are planning a prescribed burning project in the Baraga Plains area within the next few months, if favorable weather conditions exist. This should be a 140 acre burn if all goes as planned.

The United States Forest Service received criticism when an intentional burn on the Plains raged out of control in 2007. The “Baraga Bump Fire” was started under relatively dry conditions on April 27, 2007, blew out of control and ultimately burned 1,300 acres.

The USFS conducted a successful burn on 90 acres on the Plains in 2009.

It would be nice if they gave us a better idea of when this prescribed burn will happen. We can only hope they update us closer to the event.

Skerbek Carnival

2011-04-27T18:06:00.001-04:00

Yes, it is that time of year. The Skerbek Carnival is on it's way. It opens on Thursday in downtown Ishpeming.

The weather may not be kind to carnival enthusiasts but the show will go on, rain, shine or snow. The carnival opens Friday at 4 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m.

The carnival has many of the rides we remember from our childhood, the Tilt-a-Whirl and the Ferris Wheel. They have added the Himalaya... let us know what this one is all about.

Ishpeming vendors at their own special to the regular carnival fare. You'll find curly fries, corn dogs and elephant ears. You can't go wrong.

Organizers say it's a great time for everyone regardless of age.

Proceeds from the carnival go to the Ishpeming Fire Department and Bay Cliff Health Camp.

See the UP

2011-04-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

It was only 10 years ago that we took the time to visit Tahquamenon Falls. It's a beautiful falls especially in the Spring when water levels are at their highest. Then again it's beautiful in the Fall with all the color. Then again, I'd like to see it in the winter if I could. I'm sure the falls is still flowing but with beautiful ice and snow to adorn it. That only leaves the Summer out and I know it's wonderful in the Summer because that is when we were there.

Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near Paradise, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is the second largest state park in Michigan.

The 45,000-acre wilderness park has two of Michigan's most beautiful waterfalls, the park has many other interesting areas. Tahquamenon Fall State Park has more than 40 miles of hiking trails, 13 inland lakes, and 24 miles of the Tahquamenon River.

The park is a great place to have fun year-round. Camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing and photography are popular activities in the spring and summer. Fishermen will want to take advantage of some great fishing spots. In fall, many people enjoy hunting and viewing the beautiful autumn colors. Winter is for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the miles of marked trails.

The variety of wildlife includes 125 species of nesting birds, plus moose, bear, wolves, fishers and more.

So, if your a Yooper and haven't seen Tehquamenon Falls, make this your time to do that. Say gas, vacation close to home. And, if you are a visitor, WELCOME, and thanks for visiting the UP. We love to show off all the Upper Peninsula has to offer, some of the best sights in the world.

Senior Walk at MTU

2011-04-25T08:49:00.002-04:00

The Senior Walk for Michigan Tech students is an annual event. It took place on Friday, April 22nd. This was the first time I've driven through downtown Houghton as the walk was taking place. There were a lot of students participating.

This isn't a walk to raise money for a charity, it's just for fun. One last event before graduation. The students stop at some or all of the bars from Hancock through Houghton and back to campus.

Some of the students were noticeably drunk and others looked fine. All seemed to be having fun. I've never heard of anyone getting hurt but I'm sure there are a lot of hangovers the next morning.

It's not a University sanctioned event. The seniors just do it. I don't think it could be stopped if anyone tried. Graduation from Tech is a reason to celebrate and some choose this way to celebrate. I'd guess that fewer than 20% of the seniors join in. Have any of you particapted? Any guess on the % of seniors that walk?

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T15:09:00.000-04:00

The adults had as much fun hiding the eggs as the kids did hunting for them. Did they have to hide them so well?

As you can see, we have a warm and sunny day. We got together with some neighbors and friends for an Easter egg hunt.

April Showers Bring May Flowers?

2011-04-23T15:00:00.002-04:00

April Showers Bring May Flowers but do snow showers count. We woke up this morning with more snow on the ground. Can you believe that? This is not fun.

There is good news though. Easter Sunday is supposed to be warm and sunny. Get out those Easter bonnets, I'm believing the weatherman for a change.

More Marquette

2011-04-22T12:38:00.004-04:00

Not a week goes by with Marquette, Michigan receiving another award for it's Trophy Case. Here are a few. Click here for more awards! It's also one of Michigan's Cool Cities. And NO.. we can't all live in Marquette, Michigan.

10 great places to feel like an Olympic Champion
USA Today, 2010

Fan Favorite - Dozen Distinctive Destinations
the National Trust for Historic Preservation, 2010

Bicycle Friendly Communities
League of American Bicyclist, 2010

Top Five eCities (one of top-performing Michigan cities at attracting and retaining entrepreneurial firms) U. Mich Dearborn iLabs, 2009

America's Most Livable Communities
Partners for Livable Comunities, 2004

Best places to buy vacation property (U.P.)
Men's Journal, 2006

Top 200 Towns for Outdoorsman
Outdoorsman, Outdoor Life, 2008, (Marquette is #7 and the only town in Michigan)

Top 25 Shortest Commutes
CNNMoney.com, 2008 (#1)

Five Best Places to Live and Ride
Bike Magazine, 2001

Top 8 Running Towns in the Country
Trail Runners Magazine, 2008

Top 25 Places for Singles to Meet Their Match
CNNMoney.com, 2008

100 Best Art Towns in America
book by John Villani, 2005

Founders Landing

2011-04-21T12:25:00.001-04:00

Founders Landing is the development in downtown Marquette on the waterfront. It's a beautiful location for the many condominiums, restaurants, and hotel to be built there. It's very convenient to downtown and yet it's a quiet and restful area. With a bike path, marina and park in front of you and downtown shopping just steps away you can't go wrong.

Construction of the hotel at Founders Landing will begin mid May.
The hotel will be a Hampton Inn franchise with 84 rooms and a unique design. It will have some Hampton Inn design elements more in keeping with the Founders Landing look.

The hotel will have suites, a pool, a fitness center, a small meeting facility and other features. It will employ about 30 people, 25 of them full-time employees.

Neighborhood Watch

2011-04-20T10:48:00.002-04:00

It happens, even in Yooperville. Those living in the Baraga area need to be extra vigilant. We've had a rash of home break-ins.

Someone has broken into the Catholic Church, Selkey Manufacturing, and many homes. They seem to be taking only cash and alcohol, even coin. The police seem to think that all the break-ins may be by the same person or persons.

As for us? I think we are going to invest in a home security system and outside cameras. We don't have all that much of value but we are tired of our outdoor landscaping lights being stolen during the summer and if we get part of a system, why not the whole thing. They aren't that expensive.

So keep your eyes open. Report anything suspicious. It's better to be safe than to let a thief get away. Watch your neighbors house and tell them if you are having company. Keep your eyes open and your doors locked. Be safe. Let's get this guy/gal!

Darn Deer

2011-04-19T06:00:00.004-04:00

The deer get very bold and brave this time of year. Not only are they stealing the birds food but they are tasting my flowers! Yes there are flowers under all that snow. Today you'd see the starts of all my daffodils and crocus.

Banging on the window only made them look up. I think they were waiting for me to bring them some food. Maybe I should have, they'd stay away from my flowers if I fed them corn.

We manage to shoo them away into the neighbors yard where they proceeded to munch on their shrubs and check out their bird feeder.

Can you see the deer that tried to knock over the bird feeder? He's in the middle picture on the back side of the feeder. All you can see are the underbelly and back legs. If you enlarge the picture enough you might be able to see his head right in the feeder.

I see the Sun!

2011-04-18T15:50:00.005-04:00

Today is sunny and bright but cold. These are scenes from yesterday.

The birds flocked to these open spaces of grass. They were also fighting over the bird feeder. That's why Dave shoveled some grass, robins don't eat bird feed but the black birds decided they liked the grass too.

Aren't We All Tired of Snow!

2011-04-17T11:03:00.004-04:00

This is probably the most snow we've gotten at one time all year and we don't like it!

Not Snow, Please

2011-04-16T18:00:00.000-04:00

We don't want this snow! It's wet and heavy. It's covering the lawn furniture, hiding my Easter eggs and making a mess.

I wouldn't call this a storm but it isn't pleasant. It's sloppy and slippery. Give us a break! It's Spring. I want green grass and daffodils. The birds are not happy either. I can hear they squawking in the trees. It isn't a pleasant chirp.

4" so far, but I'm predicting it will melt in a day, two at the most. Why even shovel, that will just make snow banks and they take longer to melt.

Wilderness Campground Proposal

2011-04-15T10:12:00.000-04:00

Lawmakers from northern Michigan want to give local governments the option of taking over 23 state forest campgrounds that could be closed as early as next month.

They are developing legislation that would allow land rights and management of a campground to be transferred for $1 if local governments if they agree to keep a property open for campground purposes.

This could effect the twenty-three state forest campgrounds in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula proposed to close in May. The campgrounds set to close are listed as seldom used compared to other campgrounds. Many are near some of the other 110 state forest campgrounds that would remain open for the upcoming season.

State forest campgrounds are more rustic and have fewer amenities than Michigan's state parks. Forest campgrounds generally are unstaffed, but require upkeep that is increasingly difficult given the Department of Natural Resources' budget problems.

It should be less expensive for local governments to maintain these campsites because they are closer too them. Time will tell if the proposal is adopted.

Walk Thoughtfully

2011-04-14T12:57:00.003-04:00

Our walk this morning was a little anxious. We could hear sirens and police cars near us. We only saw one though, the Tribal Police. The sped past us with lights flashing and sirens howling. We made sure we were well out of their way.

On our 3 mile walk we kept looking to see what all the activity was about but we saw nothing. It took the evening new to bring us up to date.

We learned that Baraga County deputies from the sheriff's office made a traffic stop resulting in the arrest of two people. One was a 33-year-old male from Flint and a the other a 32 year old female from Baraga. They were arrested for possession of a quantity of morphine and some cocaine.

They were stopped on M-38 in Baraga which runs through the Village of Baraga. Deputies were assisted by the Keweenaw Bay Tribal Police K-9 Unit along with Baraga and L'Anse police departments. The two will be arraigned this morning on felony charges.

I wish this didn't happen in our community but no community is safe.

Fish Fry

2011-04-13T11:42:00.002-04:00

This is a great time of year to visit our local restaurants. Most of them have special fish fries on Friday night. I love to try out as many as I can.

I can't even decide which is best. The Canteen Bar and Grill in downtown L'Anse has a great fish fry but we like to order their broiled cod. Dip it in a little butter and it's the best poor man's lobster to be found. We also like Tony's Steak House in L'Anse for their all you can eat Haddock. I can't leave out the lunch we had at UP North and Company in Marquette and their special fish fry. We had the all you can eat cod. I'd recommend any of these!!

And then there's this I spotted on TV6. I think it might be worth a trip to Cooks. If you haven't heard, Sidetracks in the town of Cooks serves the best Friday Fish Fry in the Upper Peninsula, as decided by TV6 viewers.

There are about 600 people that live in Cooks. The Sidetracks has been serving up their Friday Fish Fry the same way since they opened 14 years ago. Now, they've got a plaque to prove how good it really is.

$13.95 gets you all the whitefish you can eat, plus as many trips to their equally-famous salad bar. That's what you were all waiting to hear about. Fresh local fish and white fish is my favorite. With all the publicity you will probably need a reservation.. if they take them but I may just need to make a special trip to Cooks. See you there.

Weather Talk

2011-04-12T09:51:00.003-04:00

My guess is that weather is always the main topic of conversation everywhere. Think about it and I'm sure you will agree.

Our weather has been up and down but then, so has it been across the nation.

We had a high of 64 on the 8th and 9th with highs on other days in the low 30's. Our evening lows are usually in the 20's.

It's way too cold to think about gardens but I do have some plants started inside. If they survive they won't get planted outside until late May or early June. That's just the way it is here. My cousin in Kansas is harvesting tomatoes before we put our plants in the ground.

We'd be a lot happier in the UP if they would just take the four letter word, "snow," out of the forecast. It makes us all cringe when someone uses that nasty word.

Envioronmental Fair

2011-04-11T09:40:00.003-04:00

The 3rd Annual KBIC Environmental Fair will be Wednesday, April 20Th at the KBOCC Gymnasium. This educational event promotes the stewardship of our natural resources and the environment in honor of Earth Day.

Learn about energy efficiency and weatherization, water conservation, green products and living, wastes, recycling and composting. They will also have information on forestry and tree planting, fisheries and wildlife, invasive and native plants, and archaeological resources.

and.. Door prizes.

PS. KBOCC is Keweenaw Bay Ojibway Comminity College and it is located behind the casino in Baraga.

Are there any Earth Day events in your area?

Best Day of the Year

2011-04-10T21:09:00.002-04:00

Today may just be the best day of the year for me. You must be wondering why, it's just a very nice sunny, warm, Sunday.

This is the day the ice left the bay!! Now the sun sparkles on the water or in this case, it's windy so the white caps add an extra dimension to the water. No more gray looking ice. It's beautiful!

By tomorrow the bay will be dotted with small boats trying to catch fish while the fishing is good. We won't have pleasure boaters until much later, it's a bit cold for that. I'm sure the fishermen are dressed in there cold weather gear in those boats. The water temperature can't be much above 34 degrees. It would be like sitting in a very cold refrigerator.

The best part of today will happen in the dark. The lights from across the bay will shine on the water casting their glow all the way across to us. The many colors of red, gold, orange, and yellow are always beautiful.

If you live on the coast or shore, and don't have light across from you, the water can be dark and ominous at night, but it's just the opposite for us when the lights create a path across the water. Bob describes the reflections as candlesticks.

PS.. the ice blew out into the main body of Lake Superior. If we had to wait for the ice to melt we may have had ice into late May. I'd guess the ice was 8" thick when it was pushed out to open water by a strong south wind. It takes a lot of sun to melt that much ice.

Keweenaw Peninsula

2011-04-09T10:22:00.003-04:00

If you like information about the Keweenaw you will love the Facebook site for them.

They have many beautiful photos and information on upcoming events. It's a wonderful site and it can be brought right to your own New Feed in Facebook.

The photo above was captured from their site. I hope to see hundreds of new people added to their list of friend or people liking their site. It's an older picture because the streets of downtown Houghton are now paved in gold.. sorry.. brick.

You can search for them in Facebook by Michigans-Keweenaw-Peninsula.

Masters Walley Circut

2011-04-08T09:50:00.000-04:00

The Cabela's Masters Walley Circuit and Cabela's National Team championship Tournament is coming to Escanaba, Little Bay de Noc. It's considered the Super Bowl of walley fishing.

I know it's early for me to mention an event in August but this is something you need to plan ahead for. It's considered the Super Bowl of Walley fishing. I'm sure it won't be watch on TV as much as the NFL Super Bowl but it's still an important event to fishermen.

The Cabela's NTC is an invitation-only tournament comprised of the top 250 teams. Anglers had to qualify in 2010 for the NTC and spots were allocated based on point totals.

The MWC is an open event and anyone is eligible to participate. So far 219 teams have signed up as tournament. They hope to break last year's record of 362 teams. Also coming to Delta County this summer is the Cabela's Masters Bass Circuit Tournament (MBC), which will take place July 30-31. The MBC is a one-day tournament including a built-in bad weather day.

The MBC is a new tournament open to the public with a payout of $20,000 for first place. First place payout of the MWC is $27,060 and a boat. First place for the National Team Championship (NTC) will receive $30,000.

The tournament rules mirror state regulations. Five fish may be caught each day. After weigh-in, the fish will be released back into the water. Teams will be penalized for unreleasable fish and the dead fish penalty has been raised.

The events will be televised on Versus and the results will be published in North American Fishing Magazine, which has a readership of more than 3 million.

Weigh-ins will be held at the U.P. State Fairgrounds. Admission is free and open to the public, and the event will be filmed by Versus. A Cabela's retail area will also be featured at the fairgrounds.

On the first day of weigh-ins a youth and family clinic will be held with door prizes. Kids will have an opportunity to talk to participating anglers and learn tips and skills.

Registration deadlines are April 29 for the NTC, and one week prior to the event for the MWC and MBC. The Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to help out during all three events. Those interested can contact the Chamber of Commerce (906) 786-2192

Catch the Vision

2011-04-07T09:40:00.002-04:00

Catch the Vision: I like that title. It's all about fun and a position vision for the future.

Marquette Township has organized a fun, family-friendly event for April 16th to promote a positive community spirit and showcase the talents of area musicians.

The event will be part concert, part community block party, and part civic service. "Catch the Vision" event will run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 16 at the Vandenboom School.

Performances by about two dozen musicians from Ishpeming's Wednesday Night Music Club will be featured throughout the evening. In between the acts, township officials will offer brief remarks about various committees, departments and events.

Information tables will be set up where you can learn more about township functions and offer ideas for the township and its ongoing efforts to build a greater sense of community.

Township firefighters will provide food concessions for the event. .

There will be a talk about plans for new township softball and soccer fields, park improvements, mountain bike trails, a new outdoor park near Grove Street, a community garden, increased beautification efforts and a new outdoor amphitheater or bandshell.

The event is also a chance for residents, businesses and government officials to meet each other, perhaps providing a basis for greater cooperative efforts in the future.

Tickets are available for a $5 donation at several ticket outlets including Super One Foods, EZ Stop, Range Bank's Wright Street branch, Hudson's Classic Grill and the Marquette Township Hall. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.

For more information, contact the township offices at 228-6200.

I'd like to see this kind of event in our community.

Snow or Rain

2011-04-06T14:43:00.002-04:00

We don't have any snow on the ground but on a drive to Wakefield we saw a lot of snow. They have 5 or 6 inches of snow on Monday night. It's not often you see a snow blower being used in April.

Areas around us have snow remaining on the ground. The Copper Country has snow but they always have snow.

We need some of that April rain. A nice gentle rain to wash away all the winter salt and dirt. I'm ready of some daffodils. Maybe I'll stop at Walmart and buy some fake flowers and put them in my garden. Why wait. The garden is far enough from the house that no one will be the wiser. Don't tell.

Feral Swine

2011-04-05T06:00:00.002-04:00

State to Hunters Help Eliminate Feral Swine

I've never seen a feral swine? I've never heard of anyone seeing them but according the DNRE website, eild swine pose a threat to domestic livestock, wildlife, the environment and individuals.

New legislation in Michigan allows for the opportunistic take of feral swine running at large in all counties in Michigan. In states where feral swine have become established, they have caused crop damage, pose a serious threat to the health and welfare of the domestic swine, endanger humans, impact wildlife populations, and impact the environment by disrupting the ecosystem. PLEASE REPORT ALL FERAL SWINE SIGHTINGS, KILLS AND DAMAGE.

Information on the DNR site indictes that there have been 5 sitings of feral swine in Baraga over a 10 year period. It doesn't seem like much of a problem but with all of our wilderness we rarely see Moose, Bear, or Wolves. I suppose there could be wild pigs out there too.

Some Rustic Campgrounds to Close

2011-04-04T14:25:00.000-04:00

Budget cuts, closures, smaller, that's all we hear. I acknowledge that it's got to be done but there doesn't appear to be an end.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources will order in May the permanent closure of 23 state forest campgrounds, including 15 in the Upper Peninsula. The U.P. state forest campgrounds to be closed include two in Baraga County, one in Iron County, five in Luce County, one in Mackinac County, two in Chippewa County and four in Schoolcraft County. The order will affect 189 campsites and six cabins in the U.P. It is expected to be issued May 12, becoming effective May 19.

State forest campgrounds are not state parks. They are rustic campgrounds with an adjacent stream or lake. State pathway trailheads are often found at or near state forest campgrounds. These campgrounds offer hand pumps for clean drinking water, vault toilets, a picnic table and a fire ring.

Why close these campgrounds? It can't cost much to keep them open. Declining use is one of the reasons. The DNR believes there are too many of this type of campsite

"These selections meet the objective of selecting sites that are in the lower tier of revenue generation, while also falling within the closure objectives identified by the public and dispersing closures throughout the state in locations where other camping opportunities still exist," a DNR memo to the director from division chiefs stated.

In Baraga County, the Beaufort Lake and Big Lake state forest campgrounds will be closed. Deer Lake State Forest Campground in Iron County will be shut down. In Luce County, campgrounds along the Two-Hearted River at High Bridge and the Reed and Green Bridge will be closed, along with Blind Sucker No. 1, Holland Lake and the Natalie state forest campgrounds.

In Schoolcraft County, state forest campgrounds at South Gemini Lake, Canoe Lake, Cusino Lake and Mead Creek will be closed. The Black River campground in Mackinac County will be closed as will a 50-campsite campground at Munuscong River in Chippewa County, along with 10 platform camping sites and six cabins on Lime Island, which Touring Michigan voted No. 4 on a 2008 list of Michigan's Top 25 Campgrounds.

There will remain 38 state forest campgrounds, with a total of 760 campsites or cabins, open in the U.P., and 72 state forest campgrounds open in the northern Lower Peninsula, according to the DNR.

Do you use this type of campsite?

Skateboard Parade

2011-04-03T14:16:00.002-04:00

Northern Michigan University student, Jeremy Johnson, hopes to set a record on April 10 with over 800 people confirmed for the Skateboard Parade in Marquette. The old record is 250 participants.

Registration for the event, hosted by the NMU Skate and Snow Club and the Marquette Informal Longboarding Foundation, starts at 11 a.m. Sunday in the Whitman Hall parking lot at NMU. The daylong event will feature live music, prizes, giveaways, a costume contest, dance-off and two games of S.K.A.T.E. The first 250 people to register will get a free T-shirt.

The actual parade will start at 1 p.m. near the corner of Seventh Street and Elizabeth Harden Drive near the new NMU sign, according to Johnson.

Guinness' rules for the parade require it to be one kilometer with no large gaps between skateboarders.

NMU will close the area to traffic while the parade is going on.

Getting a judge from the Guinness organization to attend the event was the most difficult part of the process. He said organizers applied for the record in November and had to have their plans for the event reviewed and approved by Guinness. They also had to pay for the judge's airfare and hotel expenses, which they did with fundraising and with help from NMU's Student Finance Committee.

Members of the Marquette Area Skate Plaza Committee will be at the event to hand out information about Marquette's skate plaza project. The plaza is planned to be built at the corner of Fair Avenue and Pine Street, near the YMCA.

Interesting... Let us know if you see this event. Tell us about it.

Indian Taco

2011-04-02T14:08:00.001-04:00

Indian Taco, it doesn't sound right does it? We are talking American Indian Taco. Aren't all tacos Mexican? I'm sure it's only in the Upper Peninsula that you can find indian tacos.

The Ojibwa Senior Citizen's group holds monthly pasty sales that are so popular and now they've added Indian tacos. The Indian taco is made on a big flat piece of fry bread and it has regular taco toppings in it.

It takes 15 to 20 volunteers to make Thursday's fundraiser happen as the group will try to sell 250 tacos, up from the 167 they sold the first time.

The Indian taco is a little more filling than a regular taco. They're good. You will probably need to come to Baraga to try one for yourself.

April Fool

2011-04-01T16:25:00.000-04:00

Did you fool anyone today? Did you get fooled?

Usually it's the weatherman who fools us by sending us a big snowstorm instead of a beautiful sunshine. To be honest it was the weatherman who fooled me anyway. He told us we were going to have a huge snow storm beginning in the late afternoon. We had been predicted to have a mix of snow and rain anyway to I didn't catch on until he said were were going to have 3 feet of snow by morning. Three inches of snow I might have believed but not three feet.

April is not often a pretty month in our area. Most likely it will be late in the month before we see green grass and/or spring flowers. Dave is usually the first one in the neighborhood to mow the grass and that's a long way off. Little do the neighbors know that he isn't so much the first to mow but he's betting any old dried grass or leaves up. He's bagging the clippings so it's easier when the grass really needs mowing.

Happy April Fools and Happy Spring. Spring is here somewhere if you look hard enough.

Island Resort and Casino

2011-03-31T11:03:00.004-04:00

The Island Resort & Casino has been nomiated as one of five finalists for the 46th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards in the Industry Award category of Casino of the Year. The ACM Awards ceremony will be Sunday, April 3, 2011. While the ACM Awards telecast is dedicated to honoring and showcasing the biggest names and emerging talent in country music, the Industry Awards categories are bestowed off-camera and will be presented to the honorees in Nashville in the Fall.

The Island Resort and Casino in Harris, near Escanaba, brings big name performers to the Upper Peninsula. They have been doing such a wonderful job that they are able to expand.

The expansion and renovation of the Island Convention Center is expected to be complete by April 28. The convention center will be more than 17,400 square feet and have a maximum single-event seating capacity of 828.

The expansion was primarily due on the number of requests for larger meetings, trade shows, conferences and social functions that could not previously be accommodated. The Resort has had several other major expansion since moving to its current location in May of 1991.

The Island Resort & Casino is one of a number of enterprises owned and operated by the Hannahville Indian Community.

Upcoming entertainment includes the following:

Bret Michaels
Three Dog Night
Clint Black
Doobie Brothers
Ron White

Credit Union Robbery

2011-03-30T22:54:00.002-04:00

What is going on? The UP seems to have frequent bank and credit union robberies. Are times really that tough?

Iron River Police officers and FBI agents are searching for a suspect who robbed an the Superior Iron Range River Credit Union Tuesday morning.

At 10:25 a.m. CST a man armed with a gun entered the credit union and demanded money. He then fled the scene on a green four-wheeler with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5-feet, 9-inches tall, with a medium build. He was wearing a dark helmet and mask, along with green coveralls.

Assisting Iron River Police and FBI agents at the scene were State Police from the Iron River Post, Iron County Sheriff's Department, Department of Natural Resources conservation officers, and the Caspian-Gaastra Public Safety Authority.

Let's get this guy. He giving the UP a bad name. Yoopers are honest hardworking people. We like to think we live in a quiet safe place.

Anyone with information concerning the robbery is asked to contact either the Iron River Police Department at (906) 265-4321 or the FBI Office in Marquette at (906) 226-2058.

Guess the Time

2011-03-29T06:00:00.002-04:00

Here's a new fundraiser for you. Over 300 people have purchased raffle tickets to benefit the Bark River Lions Club's "Icebreaker" fund-raiser. Ticket sales have ended but the truck is still on the ice.

People bet on the hour, time, and minute that the truck would fall through the ice.
Event organizers and ticket holders are just waiting for the big plunge. There is a live webcam set up if you'd like to check it out.

All of the truck's running gear was removed before it was placed on the ice in early February. The truck will be rebuilt and raced in the August off-road races.

Raffle proceeds will go to the MGH Cancer Treatment Center.

Keweenaw Crafts

2011-03-28T10:31:00.002-04:00

If you are visiting our area Keweenaw Crafts is a store you won't want to miss. It is located in the Copper Country Mall.

The Copper Country Mall doesn't have many stores left so this is a great addition. Maybe it is just what is needed to bring folks in. Check it out and add your comments.

They have handmade items from 34 local craft vendors including stained glass, afghans and jewelry. They also have a snack bar with candy, coffee and other items, along with a seating area.

There are items geared towards male customers, such as sports jerseys or glasses with etchings of regional sports teams. Also, they didn't forget the pets. There are dog and cat treats with no artificial preservatives.

For April the shop will feature a local cardmaker with custom graduation cards for area schools.

State Police Posts to Close

2011-03-27T10:38:00.002-04:00

The State of Michigan has a 1.5 billion dollar deficit for Fiscal Year 2012. As a result of the deficit, the State will close 22 State Police Post of which the L'Anse post is one.

The MSP will reduce it's number of posts from 62 to 29. Of the 29 posts, Negaunee will remain open as a regional dispatch. Twelve others will become detachments. Detachment posts will provide troopers a place to start and finish their shift. They will be able to handle administrative tasks and meet with the public by appointment.

The MSP believe that service levels will be unchanged. They believe with todays technologies troopers can work from their patrol cars. It is believed that this plan will allow the MSP to be more responsive to emerging crime trends and less constrained by traditional geographic boundaries.

Interesting.. will this work?

Population

2011-03-26T10:25:00.002-04:00

The population of Baraga County is very small. We probably don't have the population to fill a large apartment building in a city. Many of those who live here don't like to see a neighbor when they sit on there porch or deck. I'm not saying they aren't sociable or neighborly but they just want to be far enough away to feel very private.

Baraga County has a total of 8860 people as of the 2010 census. 2011 people live within the L'Anse Village limits and 2053 live within the Baraga village limits.

Surprised aren't you. The totals would drop by over 800 for the Baraga Village if you took away the prison. Yes, prisoners need to be counted.

Our total would be higher if we counted those who have summer homes here. I'd be interested to know the count for those who are here for about 3 months in the summer.

Pt. Abbaye

2011-03-25T10:07:00.002-04:00

Point Abbaye is a a Baraga County owned park of 257 acres along 2.1 miles of rocky Lake Superior. It has Huron Bay to the east and Keweenaw Bay to the west.

To reach Pt. Abbaye you would travel 25 miles north of L'Anse including 11 miles of dirt road. At this time it is not well marked and you'd be advised to take a local with you.

There are two small parking areas with two outhouse toilets. There are three short walking trails and a few primitive camping places.

There are plans being developed to enhance the park. The total cost for trails, parking, boat launch, campsites, and other improvements would be about $546,000. Any improvements will be done over time and grant money will be applied for.

The committee has a enormous job in front of them. At this time when cost are being cut there may not be funding available.

Where is Spring?

2011-03-24T09:57:00.002-04:00

The calendar says it's Spring. There is no snow on the ground in most places but it doesn't feel like Spring.

We did have one day with a high of 46 but it's been dropping since. Our highs for the day are closer to 25. We aren't going to grow any flowers at that temperature.

Herman is the only place near us that has snow. The report a 26" ground cover. Take into account that they are one of the highest spots in Michigan. They can have snow in July. Pelkie has no snow, Watton reports a little but that must be in the woods.

I want to have morning coffee on the deck. I think I'll take out the outdoor heater!

A New Hospital

2011-03-23T20:35:00.000-04:00

Baraga County will have a new hospital in L'Anse opening in June. The new hospital will be located on US 41 south of L'Anse making it unnecessary to travel through downtown L'Anse. (not that L'Anse is big enough to slow you down much.)

The old hospital needed major improvements and it was felt that it was better to go new. The hospital board was able to secure funding without going to the taxpayers for millage.

It is unfortunate that revenues at the hospital are down creating an operating loss for fiscal year 2010. Could that mean we are healthier or does it mean many of those using the hospital aren't covered by insurance and are unable to pay for services? I don't have the answer to that question.

BCMH has been forced to reduce staff, cutting jobs and reducing hours. 29 positions will have reduced hours and seven positions will be eliminated or laid off. Many of those with reduced hours are no longer eligible for health benefits.

Keep in mind that BCMH is a very, very small hospital but jobs in a county with 21% unemployment are a great loss. Let's hope the hospital is able to recall some of these employees.

No Dollar Palace in the UP

2011-03-22T06:00:00.003-04:00

Thank goodness the UP doesn't have any Dollar Palaces! Need I post some of those wonderful Walmart photos to help you understand why I've said that.

Not here!

2011-03-21T07:00:00.002-04:00

I'm so glad this didn't come from one of our newspapers! Let's rethink it though. Look at all the business the newspaper got. Lots of advertising money which created jobs which created taxes which helped the shortage of funds. If only it were that simple.

No news leaves room for a little fun

2011-03-20T06:00:00.003-04:00

..ducks...and you thought Upper Michigan police posts were boring. Maybe people put things like this in to break up the boring days.

Nothing to say

2011-03-19T15:34:00.002-04:00

It's been slow around here lately so I thought I'd show you this from a joke I received. The UP isn't the only place crazy things happen.

Pank

2011-03-18T21:36:00.001-04:00

Pank.. do you know what pank means?

We recently had a discussion about words not in the dictionary. I grew up knowing what pank meant. It was/is as commonily used as any other word.. put we used it mainly in the winter.

It's a word used mainly in Michigan, Pennslvania, and upstate New York. en

You won't find, "pank," in Webster's dictionary but I did find it in the Dictionary of American Regional English, http://dare.wisc.edu/?q=node/125

I think pank is as word as much as humongous or ginormous. Do you have any other words for us that are commonly used but aren't found in Websters.

Still don't know what pank means? Let me tell you.. as kids were were always panking snow to make forts. As we got older we panked the dirt around a plant when we planted the. It's a much nicer word than compacted.

Ok Lynn, this post is for you. Give us some more words that aren't really words especially if they are common to the UP.

Michigan Tech Hockey

2011-03-18T21:27:00.002-04:00

Michigan Tech announced that head hockey coach Jamie Russell has resigned his position effective immediately. Russell recently completed his eighth season behind the Tech bench.

Russell posted a 70-197-37 record with the Huskies after being named to the position May 7, 2003. The Kamloops, B.C., native had his best season in 2006-07 when Tech went 18-17-5 and earned a trip to the WCHA Final Five. The Huskies compiled a 4-30-4 record this season, which concluded last weekend in a first-round WCHA Playoff loss at No. 1-ranked North Dakota. a Huskies defenseman from 1987-89.

During Russell's tenure as head coach, Tech has had one Hobey Baker finalist, two All-Americans, five All-WCHA selections, 60 WCHA All-Academic Team selections and 16 WCHA Scholar-Athletes.

The Athletic Director also announced that assistant coach Pat Mikesch will not return. His contract was not renewed. Mikesch spent the last seven years as an assistant under Russell.

The search for Michigan Tech's 21st head hockey coach will begin immediately.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T10:13:00.002-04:00

What do you know about the Patron Saint of Ireland?

Did you know he was not born Irish. But he has become an integral part of the Irish heritage, mostly through his service across Ireland of the 5th century.

Patrick was born in the later half of the 4th century AD. There are differing views about the exact year and place of his birth. According to one school of opinion, he was born about 390 A.D., while the other school says it is about 373 AD. Again, his birth place is said to be in either Scotland or Roman England. His real name was probably Maewyn Succat. Though Patricius was his Romanicized name, he was later came to be familiar as Patrick.

Patrick was the son of Calpurnius, a Roman-British army officer. He was growing up as naturally as other kids in Britain. However, one day a band of pirates landed in south Wales and kidnapped this boy along with many others. Then they sold him into slavery in Ireland. He was there for 6 years, mostly imprisoned. This was when changes came to him. He dreamed of having seen God. Legend says, he was then dictated by God to escape with a getaway ship.

He escaped and went to Britain and then to France. There he joined a monastery and studied under St. Germain, the bishop of Auxerre. He spent around 12 years in training. When he became a bishop he dreamed that the Irish were calling him back to Ireland to tell them about God.

He set out for Ireland with the Pope's blessings. There he converted the Gaelic Irish, who were then mostly Pagans, to Christianity. He was confident in the Lord, he journeyed far and wide, baptizing and confirming with untiring zeal.

There are many legends associated with St Patrick. It is said that he used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the concept of the Trinity; which refers to the combination of Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Hence its strong association with his day. Saint Patrick had put the curse of God on venomous snakes in Ireland. And he drove all the snakes into the sea where they drowned.

He died on March 17, AD 461. That day has been commemorated as St. Patrick's Day ever since. The day's spirit is to celebrate the universal baptization of Ireland. Though originally a Catholic holy day, St. Patrick's Day has evolved into more of a secular holiday. Or, rather, 'be an Irish Day '.

Just thought you'd want to know....

St. Urho

2011-03-16T15:56:00.002-04:00

I'll bet not many of you have heard of St. Urho's Day. It comes from Finnish-American mythology.

This modern tongue-in-cheek legend has added another touch of humor to Finnish culture. It appears to be the Finn's answer to St. Patrick who drove the snakes out of Ireland. The Finns are able to upstage St. Patrick by having their celebration on March 16th, the day before St. Patrick's Day.
This is how the legend goes:

One of the lesser known, but extraordinary legends of ages past is the legend of St. Urho, patron saint of the Finnish vineyard workers.

Before the last glacial period, the legend goes, wild grapes grew with abundance in the area now known as Finland. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of this fact scratched on the thigh bones of giant bears that once roamed northern Europe. The grapes were threatened by a plague of grasshoppers until Urho banished the lot of them with "Heinasirkka, heinasirkka, mene taalta hiiteen." In memory of this impressive demonstration of the power of the Finnish language, at sunrise each March 16, Finnish women and children dressed in royal purple and nile green gather around the shores of the many lakes in Finland and chant what St. Urho chanted many, many years ago; "Heinasirkka, heinasirkka, mene taalta hiiteen," which translated means: "Grasshopper, grasshopper, go away."

The adult males dressed in green costumes gather on the hill overlooking the lakes, listen to the chant, then, kicking out like grasshoppers, slowly disappear to change costumes from green to purple. The celebration ends with singing and dancing polkas and schottisches and drinking grape juice, though these activities may occur in varying sequences.

Colors for the day are royal purple and nile green.

The overpowering act of St. Urho is immortalized in the following:

ODE TO ST. URHO

Ooksie, kooksie, kollme vee
Santia Urho isa poy for me.
He sase out ta hopper as pig as birds,
Neffer peefor haff I hurd dose words!
He really told dose pugs of kreen;
Braffest Finn I effer seen.
Some celebrate for St. Pat unt his snakes,
Putt Urho poyka got what it takes.
He got tall unt strong on feelia sour,
Unt ate kalla moyakka effery hour.
Tats why dat guy could sase dose peetles
What crew as thick as chack bine needles.
So let's give a cheer in hower best vay,
On the sixteenth of March - St. Urho's Day!

Translation:

One, two, three, five
Saint Urho is the boy for me.
He chased out the grasshoppers that were as big as birds,
Never before have I heard those words.
He really told those bugs of green,
Bravest Finn I've ever seen.
Some celebrate for St. Pat and his snakes,
But Urho boy has got what it takes.
He got tall and strong on feelia sour (sour buttermilk)
And ate kalla moyakka (fish head stew) every hour.
That's why that guy could chase those beetles,
That grew as thick as jack pine needles.
So let's give a cheer in our best way,
On the sixteenth of March - St. Urho's Day!

There weren't many students wearing purple at Finlandia University in Hancock, but they all enjoyed the lunchtime surprise as St. Urho and a pesky grasshopper burst into the Mannerheim Cafeteria.

Urho repeated his ode before chasing the grasshopper away, just like in the legend.

It happened so quickly, some of the students had no idea what was going on, but a few people captured the performance on their phone and laughed as they watched over again.

Signs of Spring

2011-03-15T16:05:00.003-04:00

Before the snow melts and before we have any spring flowers or buds on the trees we have sure signs that spring is on the way.

Many of the areas ice cream shops open for business. The Baraga Drive-In opened over a week ago. The Frosty Freeze in L'Anse is open and now the Frosty Treats on Third Street in Marquette is open for business.

Yoopers lined up in Marquette under sunny weather for the first ice cream of the year. The ice cream stand routinely opens around the third Monday and March.

Make sure you walk to your favorite ice cream place.. gotta burn those calories to deserve a treat.

Upper Peninsula Overland

2011-03-13T16:43:00.000-04:00

You might like this site. It's all about outdoor activity in the UP.

Click on the title above to see their Facebook page.

Ice Golf

2011-03-12T16:31:00.001-05:00

Now this is different. Don't tell Dave though, he's been waiting patiently for golfing to begin. I don't want him driving all the way to Drummond Island to get in on this. It's just a little too far for us.

DRUMMOND ISLAND SLUSHFEST FUN! Bring your clubs and your gloves! You don't need to know how to golf- this is just for fun and to support the fundraiser cause. Starts @ 11am. Two Man Scramble. alternating shots. 50% payback. Saturday, March 19, 2011. Go to the *Drummond Island Michigan* page for more information.

Best Customers in the World

2011-03-10T22:33:00.002-05:00

"We've Got the Best Customers in the World," that's what the Holiday Kitchen in Iron Mountain says.

We stopped there after seeing a huge billboard advertisement. The building itself was unimpressive but the place was packed. It looked like a good place to eat.

They say that the soups are made from scratch everyday. They use only fresh vegetables in soups and stir Fry. They server REAL mashed potatoes. Bread is baked fresh every 1/2 hour, all day long. The house dressing is made fresh daily. Their meatloaf is made from scratch daily. They use locally made Italian sausage in the meat sauce for pasta. Well you get the idea.. it's all fresh and all from scratch.

I ordered a chef salad and that was huge!! There was two eggs in it, mounds of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, ham, cheese, and everything but the kitchen sink. Dave had the taco salad and that was large and served with lots of meat. We could have shared either of the salads and been full. Why am I always on a diet and never get to try the desserts?

We were more than satisfied with the price and the service. So.. if you are in the area, check it out. The Holiday Kitchen, open 7 days a week, breakfast, lunch and dinner. No, this is not a paid ad. I like trying new places to eat and I like telling you about it.

Let us know if you have eaten at this restaruant.

Fishing Village

2011-03-09T13:57:00.004-05:00

This may look like the same picture year after year but it's not. These pictures are new. If you are one of the fishermen taking advantage of the ice on the bay you know it's this years picture. You could probably tell me who owns each shack.

I'm not quite sure if this is a social event or a sport. Looks like the social events wins.

The bottom two pictures were taken in mid afternoon, the top, the next morning. (Just in case you were wondering where the cars and trucks went.)

Deer count

2011-03-08T13:36:00.003-05:00

Checking the fields of our rural areas is a favorite past time for the really bored people. (Don't count me in the bored category.. I have to go this way to get to mom's house.) As the fields melt the deer come out of hiding and eat whatever food they can find. They are so plentiful you can't begin to count them. They are in almost every field, almost any time of day.

We estimated 100 in one small area. At least they aren't afraid and they don't run into the road. They act more like cows or cattle just grazing on the grass.

Think about this now.. about half of these deer will produce a fawn in a few months. Where do all these deer go during hunting season. The hunters in our family only see a few all season.

Studying the Wild

2011-03-07T13:16:00.002-05:00

The bear has four newborn cubs to protect, and she detected the presence of humans approaching her den. Nathan Svoboda walked a wide arc around her den and quietly approached her from behind. With a needle attached to a telescopic pole, he injected the sow with Telazol, an anesthesia.

Nathan is a doctorate student and graduate research assistant at Mississippi State University (MSU). He began the predator/prey project as a master's student at Central Michigan University and continued it despite moving to MSU, located in Starkville, Miss.

Black bears (along with bobcats, wolves and coyotes) are among the predators of U.P. whitetail fawns. The study will estimate survival and sources of mortality for fawns and does, estimate home range, size, movements and habitats used by deer and predators.

It will also count deer, bears, bobcats, coyotes and wolves in the study area
and improve understanding of predator/prey interactions to enhance wildlife management.

The bear mentioned above picked a surprising site for her den,an open marsh with some protection from the harsh north and west winds and trees buffering south winds.
Her only protection was an overhanging tangle of tree roots.

This bear is one the project has been tracking. The purpose of the visit was to replace her radio collar, used by researchers to track her movement. They also took measurements, drew blood, and injected her with a dose of penicillin.

He has documented the first-ever case of a black bear killing an adult whitetail. That finding has been published in a professional journal. Bears have been known to kill whitetail fawns, as well as young moose, elk and caribou, but never adult deer until this projects finding.

It's interesting to learn that one of Svoboda's radio collared fawns was found in a bald eagle's nest. That's the second documented case of fawn depredation by a bald eagle.

One of the objectives of the three-year study is to ascertain bear reproduction and estimate the U.P. bear population. This spring they will trap and fit carnivores and fawns with radio collars. The radio collars contain a GPS device which allows tracking so researchers can see whether they kill fawns.

Inmate worker program

2011-03-06T13:04:00.002-05:00

A new state law that will end the program allowing state inmates to work for local governments will take effect on May 1.

The prison van can be seen all over our community with workers cleaning up and mowing grass. In the summer they maintain the grounds at the cemetery. They can be seen across the UP often working on the side of the road cleaning trash.

The prisoners work full days and it's a significant discount over hiring part-time workers. In Ishpeming, they have one crew a day, typically with four trustees, and it cost about $24,000 a year.

This program, however, cost the State of Michigan money. The money paid by the local governments does not cover the cost of safely letting the prisoners do the work. So.. like many other programs that seem to be good programs.. this one will go away.

Now just so you don't panic, the prisoner who go out on the work crews are carefully screened. They are in very low level prisons and most are due to be release soon. They have done great work for our area.

Billy da Finns

2011-03-05T14:50:00.000-05:00

It's open! The Skanee area has been waiting for, "The Finns," to reopen. The Finns is on the same spot where the Huron Bay Tavern stood for many, many years.

The old building had deteriorated to the point where it took only 14 minutes to completely knock it down. It was sad to see the building go but that may have happened on it's own at any time.

The new building fits right in with the area. They have wood paneling inside and out, high ceilings and lots of wildlife on the walls. Dozens of fish and animal mounts including a bull moose (from British Columbia), wolf, and a bear head.

They also want to remember the past. The Huron Bay Tavern sign is displayed in the ceiling.

The also has four large TV screens for the sports fans in the area. In the summer they hope to host outdoor pig roasts and parties.

They have a menu including pizza, burgers, onion rings, chicken strips and fries. They are open daily fro 10 am to 2 am.

Turkey Talk

2011-03-04T19:00:00.001-05:00

As a child growing up in the UP I never saw a wild turkey. We'd see eagles once in a while, always ruffed grouse, hawks, crows, an occasional owl but never a turkey.

We were driving near Crystal Falls today and notice a large flock of birds flying across the road in front of us. The flock just kept on coming. There were at least a hundred birds that we thought at first were ravens. Not so..

As we got closer we could tell the birds were very large. We even slowed to be sure we didn't hit any. I think hitting a flying wild turkey would be almost as bad as hitting a small deer.

This video I found on YouTube is interesting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1TlqSBgs3U , it would let me show it to you here but you might want to check it out. Turkey's roost at night in large trees. They always come back to the same tree and eventually kill the tree if the flock is large enough.

Some advice for you... don't walk under a tree where turkeys are roosting.

Celebrate the UP

2011-03-03T10:35:00.000-05:00

March 18-19..

The Upper Peninsula Environmental coalition is hosting the third annual, "Celebrate the U.P." The event will happen in Houghton and Hancock.

The Amasa string band, White Water, will perform on Friday, March 18, at the Forestry Building of Michigan Tech. The program will feature music written about the UP and it's residents. (I wonder if they'll sing, Grandma got run over by a reindeer)

On Saturday, March 19, there will be a presentation at the Jutila Center on Finlandia's campus beginning at 10 A.M. There will be talks throughout the day by local outdoor enthusiasts, authors, wildlike biologists, recreationalists and other people. A panel of experts will discuss the pros and cons of various energy sources (3:00).

All events are free and open to the public. For more info; Http://www.upenvironment.org.

Dreary time of year

2011-03-02T10:28:00.000-05:00

March.. as the saying goes, if it comes in like a lamb it goes out like a lion. It didn't come in like a lion so we can expect a storm near the end of the month. We can usually count on a St. Patrick's Day storm too.

A storm wouldn't be all that bad. At least we know winter is near the end. We have very little snow on the ground, not even enough to bring the water table up in the spring. When April rolls around we'll hear how dry it is and that the danger of forest fires is high.

It would be nice if the sun would show it's face. Even though this hasn't been a bad winter for us it has been long and dreary. We need that sunshine.

Kids have Talent

2011-03-01T12:53:00.000-05:00

Eighteen local students participated in the Reach for the S.K.Y. Talent Show Saturday evening at the Brownstone Hall in Atlantic Mine.

Houghton High School senior Jason Cattelino served as emcee for the show by incorporating his juggling act with a bit of comedy.

Ian Figures, from Houghton High School, played a piano solo. Trenton Maki, a seventh-grade student from Jeffers High School wowed the crowd with a vibrant electric guitar solo. Trenton was congratulated by friends and family and audience members who were blown away by his musical talent.

In a vocal and guitar duet, Calumet High School seniors Aili Brotherton and Isabella Irwin performed an interpretation of "Mr. Brightside" by the Killers. Eighth-grade Jeffers High School student Paris Puuri was next with an interpretive dance.

Tyerra Arceci, a seventh-grade student from Lake Linden-Hubbell Schools, sang Miley Cyrus' "The Climb" and eighth-grade student Caleb Cornish, also from Lake Linden-Hubbell Schools followed with an electric guitar solo.

Emcee Jason Cattelino save the day for Emily Oppliger who was nervous. Jason performed some juggling tricks before Emily took the stage. Emily, a senior from Hancock High School, performed a Taylor Swift song in a vocal and guitar solo for the crowd.

Lawrence Ensminger a Calumet High School senior, sang "You Raise Me Up" and Jeffers High School junior Ian Crane played a guitar solo.

Maria Sliva, a sophomore at Houghton High School sang a Colbie Caillat song and the March of the Snails Band, consisting of Houghton High School juniors and seniors, followed. Band members Ben Waddell, Connor Will, Jordan Smith and Matt Schulz performed an original song, "Useless Conversation," and walked with with first place and a $150 cash prize.

Tia Swanson, a junior at Calumet High School, presented a vocal and guitar solo, and was awarded second and a $100 cash prize.

Jed Kauppila, a senior at Calumet High School, performed a piano solo, and Briana Foreman, a seventh-grade student at Jeffers High School, ended the show with a vocal solo.

Judges included Milt Olsson, Joan Petrelius and Mike Aubin. The Student Leadership Committee, and inter-school organization, was responsible for organizing the show. The event was a fundraiser for S.K.Y.

What a great way to give some Copper County Kids some on stage experience. Who knows where life will lead them.

Treasures

2011-02-28T11:48:00.002-05:00

Most Yoopers will love this!! We all have treasure, most of it still being used on a daily basis. The Treasure Hunters Road Show is coming to Houghton. If you have something you think might be of value, bring them to the Holiday Inn Express in Houghton from Tuesday through Saturday.

The Treasure Hunters Roadshow began modestly in 1996, when its founder conducted an event for collectible dolls, and it grew from there, expanding to take on a greater variety of items.

People can be surprised at what they're offered at the THR. Recently a man brought in a guitar, and he was offered $100,000. More often then not, items brought in have little or no value.

Guitars and coins are very hot items right now. Coins are selling because the price per ounce for gold ($1,403.30) and silver ($14) are high.

For those thinking of bringing in coins to the THR said it's extremely important you don't clean the items.

The THR is recorded and shown on television in three countries. However, the visit to Houghton won't be a main event for the program, but there may be cameras present in case a very unique or valuable item is brought in.

From Tuesday to Friday, the hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. There is a registration process, after which attendees will be given a number to be seen by an appraiser. The initial wait is 15 to 45 minutes, then another 20 minutes or so for the item to be examined. Most offers for items will be paid by check on the spot.

Start digging folks. That's were I'm going right now.

Cold

2011-02-27T09:12:00.002-05:00

Man it's cold this morning!! The thermometer says -4 but there is not too much of a windchill. Dave did his 3 mile walk anyway. He came back with ice on his eyelashes. He said it was especially cold walking into the wind(even though there is very little wind.)

Just when we thought there was hope of spring we get the cold weather. With very little snow there isn't much protection for water lines. Let us hope the frost is already as deep as it is going.

Keep warm out there. I hope it is warmer where you are.

Luge in Houghton

2011-02-26T07:15:00.002-05:00

It's the Yooper Luge in Houghton. It's not exactly a Olympic event.

Cardboard creations are the order of the day as Copper Country residents compete in the downtown Houghton annual Yooper Luge.

On Friday city workers tested the course and tried to smooth out any rough patches before the big event. Several tons of snow was dumped on Isle Royale Street to make the two-track course.

Everyone is welcome to participate, but you must register before the competition starts at 3 p.m today (Saturday).

Prizes will be given out for the best decoration, most creative design and most spectacular wipeout.

And when you need to warm up, the Library Brew Pub is right there to accommodate you.

Sounds like fun. I hope there will be pictures for me to post later.

Outhouse Races

2011-02-25T15:16:00.002-05:00

Pushing for glory: "Trenary prepares for the 18th Annual Outhouse Races this weekend"

Click on the above link to see a video via TV6 News.

People in Trenary are preparing for Saturday's Outhouse Races. This year's theme is 18 And Still Wipin'. I've been telling you about this event for the past several years and I've never made it there myself. This is another year I won't be able to make the event. Next year for sure!

Every year, those who race range from simple one-seaters, to elaborate thrones that look like they should be brought to the "big" wedding in England!

The Trenary Fire Department will be selling hamburgers and hotdogs. Local bars are stocking up, and several vendors will be on hand to sell a variety of food and craft items.

This event doesn't require snow so race organizers hope for a warm, sunny day to bring out the 3,000-5,000 people.

The festivities begin at noon on Saturday, with the races starting at 2 p.m. The cost to enter is only two dollars, with cash prizes for the adult teams.

Oasis Grill

2011-02-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

Things are looking better! Anytime a new business opens it's a good sign. Be sure to stop at the Oasis Grill in Ishpeming if you are in the area.

The new business is in the building that formerly was home to Chopstix and More restaurant at 403 N. Third St. As the name would imply it was formerly a Chinese restaruant and now it's more.

The new owners have added burgers, sandwiches, Mexican food and two homemade soups every day. The food is all homemade and very reasonably priced.

Oasis Grill is open from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and they deliver to Negaunee and as far as west Ishpeming with a $3.00 delivery charge.

The restaruant uses bread from Huron Mountain Bakery, the sandwiches and other items are all made to order. We all know that the Huron Mountain Bakery makes the best bread around.

They even have a under $3 menu to attract students from Ishpeming High School. They hope to get the high school crowd for lunch but I think many of us would like a $3.00 lunch.

The Oasis Grill's grand opening is planned for March 18-19, with a number of special promotions and giveaways planned.

Maybe I'll become a food critic and give you a review later. Better yet, you try it and come back and add your review.

Recycle

2011-02-23T07:00:00.002-05:00

It challenging to recycle unwanted items. What do you do with things you no long want? Have you ever wondered what to do with your worn out athletic shoes? The Negaunee High School's Global Awareness group has a suggestion.

The group will be conducting its annual athletic shoe recycling project beginning this week and running through March. The group boxes up the unwanted donated shoes and sends them to Nike. Nike recycles them and uses the materials to create track and court surfaces for underprivileged communities.

The collection will begin at the basketball games scheduled for today and Wednesday in Negaunee. Those who bring the shoes to the game will be given a ribbon and their name will go in the drawing for a raffle. Those without shoes to turn in can purchase a ribbon to help offset the cost of shipping the shoes.

Donation boxes will be available at Negaunee High School, Negaunee Middle School and Lakeview Elementary School for students or community members to drop off shoes.
Shoes dropped off that can still be used will be offered to the NHS track team or donated to the Vista Theater Thrift Shop. The unusable shoes will be sent to Nike to be recycled.

This is a great project!! I wish them well.

Homeless in the UP

2011-02-22T19:21:00.002-05:00

I've often wondered how many homeless people we had in the UP. We certainly don't have homeless like I've seen in New York and San Francisco but we must have homeless.

The Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency (DICSA)shows the number of homeless people in Dickinson and Iron counties during the 24-hour period of Jan. 26.

In that time frame, 28 people were homeless.

Additional information collected from those 28 people included:

- Gender. There were 16 adult males, seven adult females, one adult with no gender given, three male children, and one female child.

- Marital or family status. There were 22 singles, one head of household, and five household members.

- Disability. There were three people with a disability, 21 people without a disability, and four who did not report.

- There were three people with substance abuse issues, four veterans, and eight victims of domestic violence.

- 22 people had been homeless for less than one year, five people who had been homeless for more than one year, and one who did not report.

Apparently this is consistent over the past five years.

People who find themselves in such a situation can get help locally through the Housing Resource Center at the Iron Mountain Salvation Army. Instead of going to multiple agencies, people can now get all their housing services via the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army access their needs and hopefully get them into housing quickly.

It's not possible for the homeless to live in cardboard boxes in the UP and as far as I know we don't have any soup kitchens.

Police Calls

2011-02-21T19:17:00.000-05:00

I haven't done a police post in quite a while. Here's what it is like in Iron Mountain on a random day.

Monday

9:49 a.m., abandoned vehicle. Responded to the Holiday Gas Station for an abandoned vehicle complaint.

12:23 p.m., domestic assault. Walk in domestic assault complaint male subject subsequently arrested as a result and lodged at the correctional center for domestic violence and a parole violation.

12:24 p.m., harassing phone calls. Responded to the DCHS Hospital for a harassing/threatening phone call complaint.

3:05 p.m., accident. Responded to a car v. deer accident on Lake Antoine Road by City Sales.

3:45 p.m., directed patrol. 30 minutes of directed patrol on Lake Antoine Road.

4:15 p.m., directed patrol. 15 minutes of directed patrol at Margaret and Aragon.

4:35 p.m., suspicious situation. Received a call in reference to an unknown female knocking at a door in the 1200 block of Stockbridge. Caller was concerned as he did not know her.

7 p.m., directed patrol. 30 minutes of directed patrol at U. S. 2 and Third Street.

8:30 p.m., directed patrol. 30 minutes of directed patrol at U.S. 2 and Margaret Street.

10:06 p.m., possible assault. Subject reported to IMPD in reference to being assaulted. Subject will return to IMPD if they wish to file a formal complaint.

What do you think? Boring or safe?

MTU Theatre

2011-02-20T06:00:00.002-05:00

It wonderful to have Michigan Tech so near. They bring in many artist and performers we otherwise would not get to see. They also have their own Theatre Company.

The Michigan Tech Theatre Company presents Lee Blessing's "Two Rooms" at the McArdle Theatre over two weekends, Feb. 17 to 19 and Feb. 24 to 26.

The story surrounds Michael, who has been kidnapped by terrorists, and his love, Laine, is left to carry on.

Transported to a prison cell somewhere in Beirut, and an 'imagined prison cell' in an apartment in Washington D.C., audiences of 'Two Rooms' will see a couple's devotion in the face of a terrorist kidnapping, media manipulation and government exploitation. Troubled by negative media attention and state department handlers, Laine turns Michael's home office into her idea of what his must be like in his cell in Beirut.

I posted this too late for you to make it to the first set of performances but there is till this coming weekend. Get out of the house and do something different.

Ticket prices for the general public are $10, $5 for students and free for Michigan Tech students. To purchase tickets, contact the Rozsa Box Office at 487-3200, the Central Ticket Office at 487-2073 or go online at tickets.mtu.edu.

S.O.S. Diet

2011-02-19T19:00:00.000-05:00

This is not my usual type of post but the S.O.S. Diet is from a Marquette Doctor so I thought.. what the heck.. post it.

Dr. Jim Surrell is a digestive health specialist at Marquette General Hospital. His diet named S.O.S. diet means or stop only sugar.

The diet has three simple rules: low sugar, high fiber and best of all, no more rules!

He believes people are so tired of counting carbs and calories. This is short and simple. No sugar.

Dr. Surrell believes people only need to eliminate one thing from their diet to lose weight, refined sugar. Refined sugar can be found in candies, white grains and flours. Good sugars are unrefined and can be found in fruits and whole grains.
De. Surrell encourages the use of natural artificial sweetners, like stevia, and lists foods that contain sugars that are unrefined.

Of course, it's in a book. You can find a copy of the S.O.S. diet at your local book store.

Is it windy or what!

2011-02-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

The weatherman told us it was going to be windy! There won't be any planes landing at the Hancock airport. With gust up to 60 mph you'd better hold on to your hat.

Several of the ice fishermen aren't too happy either. I was talking to a friend on the phone when she said, "There goes another one." Several ice fishing shanties when skidding across the ice. They sailed beyond the point so we don't know where they landed. The shelters are usually frozen to the ice but it sounds like a few weren't as settled in.

There are reports of trees down across the area. Power was out in a few places.

We were thankful it wasn't snowing too. It would not have take much snow to cause drifts. It's all just a reminder that winter is still with us.

New Use for Your Snowblower

2011-02-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

(This was scheduled to post on 2-11-11, but I entered 12-11-11.. it's old news but still interesting.)

Would you have a snow blower big enough to put out a house fire?

After first trying a 30 pound fire extinguisher on a neighbors house fire, a quick thinking Yooper used his 32" cut, 13 horse power Ariens snow blower to put out a house fire in Diorite. quickly blowing 16" of snow into the front window of the house where the fire started.

Flames were up to the eaves of the house with tremendous heat inside the house.

No one was injured in the fire. The Ishpeming Township Fire Department will be investigating the cause of the fire and the damages over the next few days.
-----------------------------
As a follow-up to this article, the hero of the story was given a new Ariens snow blower by the Ariens company. Not a bad reward.

A Look Back

2011-02-16T19:07:00.003-05:00

I remember these days well. A State Class C Basketball Championship is something very special!

The historical page of the L'Anse Sentinel is probably the first page anyone looks at. I think we want to see if we happen to have our name on it. Several people have mentioned that they say their birth announcement.

We love Eino and Toivo

2011-02-15T06:55:00.002-05:00

The Finnish heritage of the area always brings out the Eino and Toive jokes. I don't think I know anyone named Toivo or Eino and I think that's a good thing.

ENJOY.

Toivo and Eino left Hubbell one afternoon heading for Shop-ko in Marquette. They got as far as Champion before the car broke down. They worked on the car for a while, but couldn't get it going again, by this time it was pretty late. They walked up the road a bit to the first farmhouse on the left. They asked the woman inside for help, she said she couldn't help them with the car, but they could stay the night and get help in the morning. The next day they got up thanked the woman, got their car fixed, went on to Shop-ko and went home. NINE MONTHS Later...... Toivo goes over to Eino's house....

Toivo: "Eino, do you remember the day we went to Shop-ko and da car broke down?"
Eino: " Ya Toivo, I do."
Toivo: "Eino, do you remember the nice farmer lady dat helped us?"
Eino: "Ya Toivo, I do."
Toivo: "Eino, did you walk in your sleep dat night?"
Eino: " Ya Toivo, I did."
Toivo: "Eino, did you sleep with da farmer lady dat night?"
Eino: " Ya Toivo, I did."
Toivo: "Eino.... did you tell her your name was TOIVO?"
Eino: "uh..... ya Toivo, I did."
Toivo: "Tanks, she died and willed me da farm!"

UP Fun Facts

2011-02-14T18:51:00.001-05:00

1. One day it's warm, the rest of the year it's cold.

2. People who have say "I have half a mind to go to the U.P." have all the right equipment.

3. Nearly 30% of residents in Schoolcraft County in the U.P. are graduates of the sixth grade.

4. If you fly a straight line from Sault Ste. Marie to Ironwood, you'll see a lot of trees.

5. Dollar Bay in the U.P. was named after the annual salary in the area.

6. The U.P. is the supplier of mosquitoes to the free world.

7. There are two seasons in the U.P. -- Swat and Shovel.

8. People in the U.P. wear boots because they are in style - not because there is snow on the ground.

I hope cupid stopped at your house. He missed mine altogether except for the red hearts I had in the living room window.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Sun.. We have Sunshine.

2011-02-13T16:06:00.000-05:00

Did I hear someone say so what? Sun is a big thing in the Upper Peninsula in the winter. Our cloud cover is usually so thick we don't see the sun until April. It begins to get light about 7:30 AM and dark again at 6:00 PM, but it's just light in-between, light not sunny.

The ice fishing community on the bay was very active today. It's the weekend, sunny, warm, and not windy. Everyone who has the ice fishing equipment must have been on the bay. It doesn't seem like there are many fish being caught though. Maybe they don't really fish out there. It may be one big party and a good reason to get out of the house.

It was a nice day for a walk too. The roads are almost clear of snow. It was just what I needed, exercise and sunshine.

Canada - Michigan Bridge

2011-02-12T15:52:00.002-05:00

Canada wants to build new bridge to Michigan according to Norton, Consul General of Canada. Mr. Norton explained the importance of having 21st Century infrastructure which could be utilized to increase trade and export opportunities between Michigan and Canada. He was primarily talking about a proposal to construct a second bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, Canada. That explains it.. I thought he was talking about another bridge in Sault Ste. Marie since he was talking to a group in Escanaba.

The new proposal, to construct a span across the Detroit River effectively linking Detroit with Windsor over the four to five year construction process, would generate 10,000 direct and 20,000 indirect jobs, which would overwhelmingly be located in southeast Michigan.

Canada understands the financial situation faced by Michigan, leading Canada to offer to pay for the priority project. Michigan shouldn't have to fund it or borrow money to fund the project therefore Canada will not loan the money to Michigan to cover the cost of construction, we (Canada) will instead loan the money to the developer for the construction of the customer toll plaza (in Detroit) and road work which would be Michigan's contribution for the project.

Once the bridge is constructed, Michigan, with no money down, no liability, ends up with joint ownership and joint control of a state-of-the-art bridge.

So why is he talking to UP people? It took me until the end of the article to find the answer. Michigan cannot go into partnership with a private developer. It will take our Legislature to change the rules. We are supposed to write to our congressmen.

Sorry.. that was boring even to me.

Deep Fried Treat

2011-02-11T12:24:00.001-05:00

Michigan Tech Winter Carnival...

And you thought snow statue building was all about work. Some students work, others come for the food. They can find kabobs and deep-fried desserts to grilled cheese sandwiches and bowls of chili.

Have you tired a deep-fried Milky Way? It's said to be dellicious but I haven't had the opportunity to try it.

The Keweenaw Chapter of Michigan Tech Alumni and Friends distributed free chili, donated by The Library Restaurant and Brew Pub for the Jon Davis Memorial Chili Run. Students wearing sandwich signs advertised pancake breakfasts while another organization had pasties available.

There were T-shirts for sale by the students in the Society of Women Engineers. They were also selling kabobs at one end of campus.

It sounds like the time to be on campus was Wednesday night. Sorry we missed it.

President Obama in Marquette

2011-02-10T13:24:00.008-05:00

The top two photos were taken of/by our granddaughter. Her mom works at KI Sawyer.

Yes, President Obama is in Marquette. He is here to talk about communication. He wants to see 98% of the Nation connected to high speed wireless within the next 5 years.

The president's budget supports the 4G build out in rural areas, like the U.P. with a one-time $5 investment. The initiative plans to inspire innovation from business owners, enable long-distance learning, and make state-of-the-art, secure, nationwide, and interoperable mobile communication available to public safety officials.

Air Force One landed at landed at Sawyer International at 11:45 a.m. EST and personally greeted those waiting at the airport. The President jogged across the tarmac to greet the limited number of guests who were invited. He spent about five minutes chatting with people, then jogged back and got in his vehicle. He's headed to Marquette.

The motorcade stopped at Donckers Candy Store and restaurant in downtown Marquette where he chatted with staff and customers. He purchased a club sandwich and some chocolates to take home to his daughters. Stopping at local restaurants is something the President often does.

There were about 1,000 people in attendance for the Presidents speech at Vandament Arena, by invitation only. Most were NMU students as requested by the White House.

The President touch on the situation in Egypt stating that we were watching history unfold. He continued his speech on the high speed 4G wimax that NMU installed and had up and running in 4 days with only 6 people working on the system. Mr. Obama said he wants to meet these 6 people, there is a lot of work for them in Washington.

The President asked how many Packer's fans were in the audience. He referred to us as Yoopers, someone did his homework for him. He also said Marquette was beautiful.

Deep Winter Weather

2011-02-09T11:00:00.001-05:00

It's a good day to stay in the house. We have 4-6" of fresh snow, it's cold and windy. The wind chill brings us to -15 to -20 degrees. You aren't getting me outside, I'm lighting the fireplace.

I will add that it's a beautiful day. The sun is out and all that fresh snow is sparkling like diamonds. If my memory is correct, this is the coldest day so far this winter.

Fish Free weekend

2011-02-08T13:08:00.000-05:00

Don't let them kid you, it's not really free, only sort of. At any rate, residents and non residents, can fish without a license on February 19 -20.

What will you need to take advantage of the fish free weekend? According to my resident fisherman, you'll need the following:

tent if it's cold or windy
pole is a must
wax worms are the bait for ice fishing
bucket to sit on
ice spud to get through about a foot of ice

He recommends stopping at Wilkinson General Store in Baraga. They will get you set up.

Michigan has been holding a Winter Free Fishing Weekend since 2000. It is a way of promoting our 3,000 miles of Great Lake shoreling, 36,000 miles of rivers and 11,000 inland lakes.

Powerful Bath Salts

2011-02-07T16:05:00.000-05:00

How did I miss this on the news. It must have been on the national news at some point in time. I thought it might be worth call your attention to the issue because it may still be on the shelves in many areas.

The Marquette County Health Department has issued an emergency order under the authority of Michigan's Public Health Code to remove toxic products marketed as "bath salts" from area shelves.

The "bath salt" products are being sold locally and over the Internet with names like White Rush, Cloud 9, Ivory Wave, Ocean, Charge Plus, White Lightening, Scarface, Hurricane Charlie, Red Dove, and White Dove.

This type of powder is being sold across the country as a crystalline powder. They are being sold online, at beauty shops, convenience stores, and on the street. These are not commercially manufactured bath salts.

Many of these products contain a number of synthetic chemicals including Methylmethcathinone or Methylenedioxyprovalerone, both of which are strong stimulants that can cause increased heart rate, chest pains, dizziness, delusions, panic attacks, nose bleeding and nausea. Nationwide the use of these bath salts have been involved in homicides and suicides.

That's some bad salt. Be careful and buy only a Brand name you are familiar with.

Go Green Bay Packers!!

2011-02-06T12:58:00.003-05:00

All eyes are on the TV later today. There aren't too many years when we have a team near and dear to our hearts in the Super Bowl. Not that it's all pleasant in Yooperville.

There are Packer fans and then there are those who hate the Packers. They tell me it's because the Packer fans are obnoxious. If you ask me, all franchises have a few obnoxious fans. I tell them all that if the Lions, Bears, or Vikings were in the Super Bowl, I'd cheer for them. I'd cheer for any team in our division.

Packer colors can be seen all around. A neighbor has green and gold lights outside. The local grocery story has, "Go Packers," on the meat label along with the price. The grocery store bakery has Packer cakes. I believe you can get Steeler cakes too but there just aren't as many available.

We are joining the neighbors for a party later. I would bet that at each score or bad call you'll hear a roar of the crowd from here to Green Bay. You won't need to be sitting in a bar or at a party. Just stop and listen. The windows of many houses will rattle and car horns will blare. You might even see a smoke signal or two. Lets see.. at the party we are going to they have a fireplace. I wonder how you make a "G" with smoke.

How many minutes left until kick-off!! Pre-game must have started by now. Don't bug me til it's over.

MTU Winter Carnival

2011-02-05T12:40:00.004-05:00

The pictures above are from some previous Winter Carnivals.

It's almost here! It's almost Carnival time. Mark your calendars for February 9th - February 12, 2011.

There are a wide variety of events for students and the community to praticipate in or just to watch.

Beards Competition - Early in December, clean-shaven competitors sign up in three different categories (beards, goatees, and sideburns). Contestants then have two months to grow the fullest facial hair possible. Finally, in an attempt to wow the judges, they often show off their beards using costumes, songs, skits, and the like.

Broomball - A favorite, broomball is much like hockey, and yet... Using duct-taped brooms, a mid-sized ball, and no skates, players slide madly around the ice trying to put the ball past the goalie. Sounds simple if you've never tried it.

Curling - Students compete in this ancient Scottish game at the Calumet Armory, where they throw granite stones across the ice and coax them along with brooms.

Human Dog Sled Race- On your mark, get set, pull! Six runners haul four riders and a musher in this zany event.

Ice Bowling-- One team member is hurled down the lane by other members trying to knock down as many pins as possible.

Ice Fishing-- Fishermen brave early hours and cold out on Chassell Bay in search of the biggest northern pike or walleye.

Skating - Relay races are held at Dee Stadium, in downtown Houghton.

Skiing - Student organizations compete in races at the Tech Trails (Cross-Country) and at the Mt. Ripley Ski Hill (Downhill).

Snow Volleyball- Volleyball in the snow makes for interesting competition. Teams must battle the cold weather and loose footing while making a run for Winter Carnival glory.

Tug-o-War - On dry land, this event can be an easy win with sufficiently hefty people on your side, but at Carnival it is also a team-wide test of grip on ice.

Snowshoe Races - To run in 27-inch snowshoes requires much coordination and power.

It much more than Queen competition, Stage Reviews, snow statues and Men's Ice Hockey. It's an entire week of activities.

Blue Key has a wonderful web site. Check it out.

The President in Marquette!

2011-02-04T19:00:00.001-05:00

You read that correctly, President Obama is coming to Marquette next Thursday.

The President's office believes that Marquette can be an example for the rest of the nation. The office also stated that N.M.U. is an example of a university that's taking advantage of the latest technology.

WiMax sends a broadband signal over a few miles, making it possible to connect off N.M.U.'s campus. The President was impressed with NMU's WiMax 4G network. It is the only university in the nation to have a 4G network. The university partnered on the project with schools K-12 and with the Fire and Police Departments

The President's Marquette visit is part of Obama’s initiative to make sure that people, goods and information are moving efficiently to and from communities all over the nation and all over the world, especially from rural areas like the U.P. An example effective communication was demonstrated during the recent threat on the NMU Campus.

A White House official said the President is coming to Marquette because the city "is a model for other cities" in regard to its advances in wireless technology and long distance learning.

Blog Threat

2011-02-03T21:53:00.000-05:00

Did you see this on the national news?

Northern Michigan University was closed because of an anonymous threat. The threat posted in a blog, would have caused harm to students but it was unknown what part of campus it would impact. The closure were a precaution pending further investigation.

Marquette Senior High School was also placed on lockdown as a precaution but there was no separate threat to the school.

All MAPS students were released by 10:40 a.m. on the advice of the Marquette City Police. The decision to close the schools and dismiss students was made by the school district and not the police department. All staff were sent home as well. The district was also being extremely cautious by walking students to buses, only allowing one child to be picked up at a time and not allowing anyone to come into the buildings.

Students from both Father Marquette Elementary and Middle Schools were also sent home as well as students from North Star Academy.

Marquette General Hospital, adjacent to the NMU campus, was in lockdown also. Five entrances were open for patients and other business, which were being monitored by security personnel. All other entrances were closed.

As a follow up to this story:

NMU President Les Wong said in a news release that the FBI and other agencies have indicated that there is no longer a clear and ongoing threat and that conditions are suitable to reopening the university. A continuing investigation has revealed no evidence the anonymous blog post which sparked today's lockdown originated on the NMU campus. It was discovered that similarly worded messages have been directed at several other U.S. universities.