Janet Metsa, 110th District House candidate, posts "Remembering Labor Day" video, discusses values with supporters

By Michele Bourdieu

Janet Metsa, candidate for Michigan's 110th District House seat, is pictured here near the Keweenaw Waterway in a new video she recently posted on YouTube, Remembering Labor Day. (Photo © and courtesy Janet Metsa and Michael Mullins)
 
HOUGHTON COUNTY, Mich. -- Janet Metsa, candidate for Michigan's 110th District House seat, honors workers -- past and present -- this Labor Day 2020 with a video she and her husband, Michael Mullins, made recently and posted on YouTube. She also held fundraiser question and answer sessions last week on Zoom to discuss her democratic values with supporters.

In the video, Metsa recognizes the Copper Country miners, who held a strike in 1913 for better working conditions, comparing their challenges to those of frontline workers today -- medical workers, teachers and working parents -- risking their lives in the face of the COVID-19 epidemic.

"This Labor Day is a good time to remember the legacy of the workers who came before us, and moving forward I want to support all working people as we make our communities here in the UP a better place to live," Metsa states in her video.

Watch the video here or click on the YouTube icon for a larger screen:

In this recent video for her campaign, Janet Metsa recognizes the workers of the Copper Country past, comparing their struggle to the challenges faced by today's frontline workers during the COVID-19 epidemic. (Photographs from Michigan Technological University Archives, courtesy Janet Metsa. Music: "Metsa Kukkia Waltz," played by Viljo Vesterinen)

Democratic Candidate Metsa is a supporter of labor unions and workers' rights. So far she has received endorsements from Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights, AFL-CIO, and Michigan Education Association.*

Metsa discusses issues with supporters on Zoom

During two fundraising Zoom discussions, on Sept. 2 and Sept. 3, Metsa gave a summary of her background and why she is running for the 110th District Michigan House of Representatives seat against Republican incumbent Greg Markkanen. She then fielded questions from supporters.

Sarah Green, Michigan Tech professor of chemistry and interim chair of the Chemistry Department, hosted the Sept. 2 Zoom fundraiser for Metsa.

"We need a forward-looking representative for the 110th district who can show Lansing the best of the UP, from our natural environment to our high-tech businesses," Green told Keweenaw Now.

During the first Zoom event Metsa answered a question on environmental protections, noting her concerns for sustainable forestry, fisheries and agriculture, as well as the problems of mining waste and climate change. She noted the federal government is responsible to the Native American tribes for keeping the fisheries healthy.

Linda Belote of Hancock said she was worried about the need for jobs vs. environmental protection.

Mentioning the Green New Deal, Sarah Green noted, "We can't have a healthy economy without a clean environment."

Metsa also commented on the importance of tourism in the Upper Peninsula economy and the many small businesses that depend on it.

"Tourism needs a clean environment," Metsa said.

As for job creation, Metsa has often referred to her experience with the local Smart Zone and the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) and her own two businesses she started here with practically nothing.**

As she states on her Web site, "The answer is people create jobs!"

Metsa stresses the need to look at partnerships in business and education.

The second Zoom fundraising event, on Sept. 3, was hosted by Paul Sturgul of Hurley, Wis., who invited friends from the western end of the 110th District, including Ironwood and Bessemer, for the discussion.

Sturgul said he is very impressed that Janet is running for this office, especially because with her educational background she could be doing a lot of things in her life but instead has chosen public service.

"I grew up on a dairy farm and I learned to work hard," Metsa said. "I went to Chassell schools and MIT and I learned to work smart."

Janet Metsa is pictured here in front of the historic Chassell School she attended. "I went K-12 at the old Chassell school. A strong public education was my one shot at the American dream, like it is for so many students. It prepared me to run my business, serve my community, and provide for my family," Metsa states on her Facebook page. (Photo © and courtesy Janet Metsa and Michael Mullins)

During the Sept. 3 discussion, Metsa told supporters she has noted a strong entrepreneurial sentiment in Ironwood and would like to see collaboration between Michigan Tech and Gogebic Community College (located in Ironwood and Houghton).

"I'm a strong supporter of the community college system," Metsa noted during the Zoom discussion.

As she states on her Web site, "Building closer relationships and exchanges between Michigan Tech and Gogebic Community College in health care, technology and other key areas would benefit more counties of the Western U.P. and provide a better trained workforce at a lower cost."**

Health care was another topic of the discussion during the Sept. 3 Zoom event.

Sturgul noted his disappointment with Michigan's 38th District State Senator Ed McBroom's voting against the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Metsa said, while she sees a role for private health insurance, she is a strong supporter of Medicaid expansion, which benefits the local rural hospitals.

"Anything that gets more people covered," she added.

The discussion also included the need for broader, reliable affordable Internet in the 110th District.

Metsa said she is looking forward to the report from the Governor's UP Energy Task Force on ways to solve the problem of the high electrical costs in the UP.***

On the question of gun rights, Metsa said she is not against hunting.

"I'm not going to take a hunter's license away," she said. "I don't have a problem with hunting."

Metsa noted her husband is a bird hunter and her son, an Eagle Scout, taught gun safety at the Boy Scout ranch in New Mexico.

She is, however, concerned that there is a huge problem of guns in the homes of domestic abusers.

Paul Mitchell, a member of the Houghton County Democratic Party, who participated in the Sept. 3 Zoom discussion, said he supports Metsa because of her hardworking "Yooper" roots and commitment to working for local communities.

"For me, now more than ever we need thoughtful, hardworking legislators," Mitchell told Keweenaw Now. I am certain Janet is a problem solver. I remember her telling the story of her Finnish parents and their friends sitting around their kitchen talking politics and she always remembered them talking about the needs of 'da people' and working for 'da people.' I think Janet will actually work for 'da people.'"

NOTES:

* Visit the Friends of Janet Metsa Web site to learn more about her background, issues, endorsements and more.

** Click here to learn more about Janet Metsa's views on Jobs and the Economy. See also our July 31, 2020, article, "Janet Metsa, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 110th State House District, speaks on economics, environment, education, energy."

*** Click here to learn about the UP Energy Task Force and their charge to assess the UP’s overall energy needs and how they are currently being met; formulate alternative solutions for meeting those needs with a focus on security, reliability, affordability, and environmental soundness; and identify and evaluate potential changes that could occur to energy supply and distribution in the UP, the impacts of such changes and the alternatives for responding to such changes.

Twelve more mobile food pantries coming to Houghton, L'Anse, Ontonagon

Mobile pantries such as this are coming to Houghton, L'Anse and Ontonagon each month through the rest of 2020. (Photo courtesy Portage Health Foundation)

HANCOCK -- Portage Health Foundation (PHF) is proud to announce 12 additional mobile food pantries coming to Michigan’s Copper Country, with visits to Houghton, L’Anse and Ontonagon scheduled for each month through the end of 2020.

"This has been a challenging year for all of us," said Kevin Store, executive director of PHF. "For some folks in our community, this has meant choosing between paying for food or paying for other necessities. We’ve seen a new group of people who have never had to navigate through things like unemployment or accessing some of the programs that are there to help people in financially challenging times."

The mobile food pantries are funded by Portage Health Foundation in partnership with Community Action Food Pantry, Ontonagon Area Schools and Feeding America West Michigan. At each of the mobile food pantries that took place in August, every family that waited in line received food.

"Everyone needs food! What is most satisfying is that these events are filled with hope and a sense of community," Store said. "I am grateful that we have been able to collaborate with others in our community to make this happen and thankful for the people coming out to each distribution -- all of this food is finding its way to our community."

Each mobile food pantry will provide a variety of foods, including fresh produce and dairy items, to approximately 300 families. For these distributions, attendees will not have to show identification or proof of income to receive food; however, they will be required to provide basic contact information and affirm that they are in need of food. Boxes of food will be provided in a drive-through format. Each event will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Upcoming Mobile Food Pantries

 --  Thursday, September 10, 2 p.m. at Community Action Service Center in Houghton (310 E. Sharon Avenue)
 --  Thursday, September 17, 2 p.m. at Meadowbrook Arena in L’Anse (204 Division Street)
 --  Thursday, September 24, 12 p.m. at Ontonagon Area Schools in Ontonagon (701 Parker Avenue)

At the beginning of each month for the remainder of the year, details about the next month's mobile food pantries will be released. A schedule can also be found anytime at feedwm.org/mobile-pantry-schedule.

COVID-19 Community Recovery Fund

These events are being funded by Portage Health Foundation’s COVID-19 Community Recovery Fund. This is a restricted fund maintained for the purpose of mobilizing resources for the citizens of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw and Ontonagon counties. All monies contributed to this restricted fund will be used locally for the distribution of health/humanitarian relief.

To support this and other projects like it, visit phfgive.org/covid19 .

Rozsa to present free virtual performance of Manual Cinema's "Lula Del Ray" Sept. 4

 

Lula del Ray. (Image courtesy Rozsa Center)

HOUGHTON -- The Rozsa Center brings original, creative, groundbreaking arts to the Keweenaw, whether audiences are in person or online. In that tradition, the Rozsa is proud to host their inaugural virtual performance of Lula Del Ray by Manual Cinema, an award-winning artistic company that has pushed the art and crafts of filmmaking, puppetry, and live performance in an exciting and breathtaking new artistic direction.

Lula Del Ray -- the story of a young girl experiencing life, teenage angst, and new, sometimes haunting adventures -- combines handmade shadow puppetry, innovative cinematic techniques, and live sound and music to create an immersive, haunting, and entirely unique performance. Join online for Lula Del Ray, streaming FREE, beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4. The performance will be available for viewing for 24 hours, so you can catch the show anywhere, at a time that works best for you.

You can access the link on mtu.edu/rozsa close to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept 4. You will have to enter your email address to receive the link with a passcode, via automated email: the concert live stream is password protected.

Following the performance, the artists of Manual Cinema will host a live webinar at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8, where they will pull back the virtual curtain and guide audiences through their innovative blend of lighting, puppetry, and cinematic techniques -- all the elements that make their award-winning creations come to life.

Manual Cinema is an Emmy Award winning performance collective, design studio, and film/ video production company founded in 2010 by Drew Dir, Sarah Fornace, Ben Kauffman, Julia Miller, and Kyle Vegter. Using vintage overhead projectors, multiple screens, puppets, actors, live feed cameras, multi-channel sound design, and a live music ensemble, Manual Cinema transforms the experience of attending the cinema and imbues it with liveness, ingenuity, and theatricality. 

Western UP Health Dept. confirms first Houghton County death from COVID-19; potential COVID exposure site in Houghton also identified

HOUGHTON COUNTY -- The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) has confirmed that a person has died of complications surrounding COVID-19 in Houghton County. The elderly person was an inpatient at a local hospital at the time of death. To date, there have been two deaths related to the virus within the five-county jurisdiction -- the first was in Gogebic County.

"Our heartfelt sympathies and prayers go out to the family who has lost their loved one," said Kate Beer, Health Officer at WUPHD. "This is a sad reminder of the seriousness of the COVID-19 threat. We must continue our prevention efforts, especially for the safety of our elderly and vulnerable populations."

WUPHD reminds people to avoid close contact with people who are not part of your household as even people with mild or no symptoms can spread the virus. Masking, washing hands, and maintaining a 6-foot distance are steps that you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

WUPHD is working to coordinate their response with federal, state, and local officials, as well as healthcare professionals, institutions, schools and community organizations. For more information, please contact the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department at (906) 482-7382. Updates are also available at www.wuphd.org.

A State informational hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time seven days per week. That number is 1-888-535-6136. Additional information on COVID-19 can be found on the MDHHS website or the CDC website.

Potential COVID-19 exposure site identified in Houghton

The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) has identified the Theta Tau-Beta Chapter, located at 407 Fairview Street, Houghton, MI, as a potential exposure site for COVID-19. Exposure may have occurred during events held at the site on Monday, August 24, and Tuesday, August 25. Case investigation has revealed that social distancing and masking were not followed at these events during the times that a positive case attended. Theta Tau-Beta Chapter is an off-campus student fraternal organization that is not recognized by Michigan Tech.

WUPHD asks that if you attended these events, or have had close contact with someone who visited this site, and have or develop symptoms such as cough, fever, shortness of breath, or a new loss of taste or smell, that you call your healthcare provider and inform them of your potential exposure. For general information, call the WUPHD at (906) 482-7382, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

If your symptoms worsen to the point of needing emergency care, please call 911 and notify the dispatcher of your symptoms or any potential exposure.

Editor's Note: See Copper Country Strong (linked in our right-hand column) for updates on COVID-19 cases in the five-county area.

Western UP Health Department provides decision-making guidance to school administrators

HANCOCK -- The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) provides additional details on how they are working with the Copper Country Immediate School District (CCISD) and the Gogebic-Ontonagon Intermediate School District (GOISD) to ensure the safety of children as they return to school.

"One of our greatest challenges during this pandemic is the safe return of children and teachers to school this fall," said Kate Beer, Health Officer at WUPHD. "Working with our school partners, we are developing a framework for making decisions on conditions that would trigger a reduction of in-person classes or a transition to virtual classes. The end goal is to ensure that all children receive a safe, equitable education during these unprecedented times."

The WUPHD will utilize the State of Michigan’s MI Safe Start Map, found at www.mistartmap.info, as their primary source for statistics relating to the safe re-opening of schools. This state website provides the most up to date information available on county and regional case counts and testing levels. These statistics will help determine the COVID-19 risk level in a community.

"The state map is a starting point," said Beer. "Information regarding local outbreaks will also play an important role in the decision making process. We will need to weigh community outbreaks differently than facility outbreaks, for example."

MPSC to hold public hearing Aug. 24 on Enbridge's request for siting authority to replace, relocate Line 5 in tunnel under Straits of Mackinac

Michigan Public Service Commissioners are, from left, Daniel C. Scripps, Sally A. Talberg, and Tremaine L. Phillips. (File photo courtesy Michigan Public Service Commission)

LANSING -- The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) will hold an electronic public hearing on Aug. 24 to take input on Enbridge Energy LP’s request for siting authority of its plans to relocate a segment of the Line 5 pipeline to a tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac.

The hearing will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 24, and is open to the public. The meeting will take place virtually with public participation by telephone, consistent with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order 2020-154 permitting electronic meetings to preserve the public’s health and safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Event Details:

    What: Public hearing to receive comments
    When: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Aug. 24, 2020
    Where: Virtually, using Microsoft Teams
    Who: Michigan Public Service Commission members and MPSC Staff
    Access Information: Participate online by accessing the Microsoft Teams hearing link (https://bit.ly/2P7RVJG) or by calling 248-509-0316 and entering 998 713 012, followed by # when prompted.
Those who wish to comment are strongly encouraged to pre-register by 3 p.m. (Eastern time) on Monday, Aug. 24, 2020, by using the registration form at www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPSCLine5PublicHearing or by calling 800-292-9555. 

Comments also can be mailed to the Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, 7109 W. Saginaw Hwy., Lansing MI 48917, or emailed to mpscedockets@michigan.gov. Please include the case number (U-20763) in your correspondence.

Members of the public who are speech or hearing impaired may participate by calling 711 and using the Michigan Relay service. More information about this service may be found here. Those who need any additional accommodations may contact the Commission’s Executive Secretary at 517-284-8090.

For more information about this public hearing, click here.

A transcript of the public hearing will be filed in the docket for Case No. U-20763. This hearing may also be recorded, and the recording may be posted at www.youtube.com/MichiganPublicServiceCommission

For more information about Enbridge Energy’s Act 16 application and how to participate, go to www.michigan.gov/mpscline5.

For information about the MPSC, visit www.Michigan.gov/MPSC, sign up for one of its listservs, or follow the Commission on Twitter.

Editor's Note: For background on the reason for this public hearing see "MPSC denies Enbridge Energy's request for relief on Line 5 pipeline project, sets Aug. 24 full hearing process for proposal."

See also our May 8, 2020, article: "Michigan Public Service Commission seeks public comment on Enbridge Line 5 - tunnel request by May 13." 

You can also submit a comment to the MPSC opposing Enbridge's tunnel request via Oil and Water Don't Mix.

Copper Country Associated Artists host Eagle Harbor VIRTUAL Art Fair

Superior Symphony. Acrylic landscape, by Julie Highlen of Northwoods Art Studio. (Image © Julie Highlen and courtesy Copper Country Associated Artists)

CALUMET -- In May of this year, Copper Country Associated Artists (CCAA) was obliged to postpone the 60th Annual Eagle Harbor Art Fair because of the pandemic. While the 60th Annual event is now scheduled for August 2021, CCAA is now hosting an Eagle Harbor Virtual Art Fair Web page in order to continue the tradition of CCAA and support Art Fair vendors, CCAA and its members.

The Virtual Art Fair web page has two sections. The first section is the Eagle Harbor Art Fair Vendors. The second section of the page is CCAA Member Artists. Each artist has a small area with photos of their work; a bio and artist statement; and a link to the artist's website, Etsy page or Facebook page.

According to CCAA member Miriam Pickens, "The Copper Country Associated Artists (CCAA) has supported local and regional artists in many ways and for many years. It has evolved from a small group meeting in homes and churches, to a well-established co-op gallery in the heart of the Calumet Art District. This group has faced hurdles before; and because of their nimbleness, determination and creativity, they have always met these challenges with progress."*

The Copper Country Associated Artists (CCAA) gallery in Calumet, while supporting local artists, has been the scene of many art events open to the public, including free First Friday workshops. The gallery is open from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. (Photo courtesy Copper Country Associated Artists)

Cynthia Coté, executive director of the Copper Country Community Arts Center in Hancock, recalls the history and important legacy of the Copper Country Associated Artists as the oldest art organization in the Copper Country.

"The earliest formal meeting of the CCAA was in December 1958," Coté notes. "As stated in their history, 'The purpose was to promote local craftsmen and improve quality of their work by evaluation and discussion with others in the same field.'" **

To see the Virtual Art Fair, please visit https://ccaartists.org/eh-art-fair-virtual/

Please take a moment to check out this virtual Art Fair. Learn about the artists and see examples of their work. And if you see an art object that you like, support the CCAA by making a purchase.

Editor's Notes:

* This quote is taken from The Daily Mining Gazette Arts Corner column written by Miriam Pickens. Reprinted here with permission.

** Taken from Cynthia Coté's statement quoted by Miriam Pickens in her Gazette column. Reprinted here with permission.

Governor Whitmer announces $65 million in CARES Act Funding for Michigan schools

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer begins her press conference on Aug. 19, 2020. At left is a sign language interpreter. Gov. Whitmer gives an update on the state of COVID-19 in Michigan and announces new funding for schools. (Photo courtesy Michigan Office of the Governor and Michigan State Police Facebook page)

LANSING -- During a press conference today, Aug. 19, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that she will allocate nearly $65 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act dollars to Michigan school districts, higher education institutions, and other education-related entities that have been most significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes schools in Michigan’s economically disadvantaged districts and will help address the digital divide that has served as a barrier to remote learning for students and educators across the state. The funding comes from the Governor’s Education Emergency Relief (GEER) Fund.

The governor was joined by Chief Medical Executive and MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Sen. Winnie Brinks, Rep. Sheryl Kennedy, and Grand Rapids Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby.

"As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and approach the start of the new school year, we must continue doing everything we can to protect our students, educators, and support staff. This funding will help us do just that, and ensure crucial support for our schools, whether it’s helping schools access PPE and cleaning supplies or helping students mitigate the impacts of learning loss in districts that need it most," said Governor Whitmer. "This is a good start, but we still need the federal government to work together on a bipartisan recovery package to support all Michigan students and educators, as well as state governments, families, and small businesses."

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on Michigan’s students, educators, and support staff, especially those in low-income communities. GEER funds are meant for districts that are determined to be most significantly impacted by COVID-19. To ensure these districts are targeted, the framework distributes $60 million to school districts based on the number of students in high-need student groups. Districts will receive funding based on their numbers of economically disadvantaged students, special education students, and English language learners. To be eligible for funding, the school district’s concentration of economically disadvantaged pupils, compared to total district enrollment, must exceed 50 percent.

Recipient districts will be required to use GEER funds for any of the following goals:

• Connectivity: Devices, internet access, access to remote services, or other similar purposes.
• Student Mental Health: Funding would enhance access to remote and in-person student mental health services.
• Addressing Learning Loss: Funding could be used by districts to offer supplementary content and intervention services to mitigate the impacts of learning loss.
• Out-of-School-Time Learning: Funds could be used to support out-of-school-time learning. These expenditures would ensure students have safe spaces to participate in remote education.
• Remote Learning Materials and Training (digital and non-digital): Funds could address both digital and non-digital content where remote learning continues as an instructional delivery model.
• Teacher Training and Curriculum: Funding could be used to provide additional professional development and curriculum modifications that allow districts to effectively facilitate distance learning while expanding their knowledge of the science of teaching.
• Other health, safety, and wellness needs identified, required, or recommended in the MI Return to School Roadmap. 

$5.4 million will be distributed to other education related entities, and will be distributed for statewide mental health services, public television learning resources, implementation of teacher professional learning practices, and the Early On program to help reach more infants and toddlers through remote early intervention.

To view video of the governor's press conference, click here.

To view the PowerPoint presentation the governor used, click here. 

Farmers Market Grant to ensure safety for vendors and shoppers

Customers at the Downtown Houghton Farmers Market enjoy a variety of locally grown fresh produce. The Houghton Farmers Market is one of three local farmers markets to be awarded a mini grant from Portage Health Foundation. (Photo courtesy Portage Health Foundation)

HANCOCK -- Portage Health Foundation granted out more than $3,500 to local farmers markets in a targeted mini grant to help them stay safe and stay open.

"We are committed to supporting local food access and proud of our area farmers markets for maintaining these critical food access points throughout the COVID-19 pandemic," said Michelle Seguin, MD, DABFM, Director of Community Health at the foundation.

The grant proposals were submitted by market managers and checks have already been submitted to the markets. Below is information on each of the three successful grants.

$1,617.32 to Downtown Houghton Farmers Market

The Downtown Houghton Farmers Market received $1,617.32 to improve communication and purchase personal protective equipment. That included new signage throughout the market, masks and hand sanitizer. The market is following best practices put out by the MSU Extension Office to support local farmers and help residents eat healthy. The market is open Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

$895.65 to Main Street Calumet Farmers Market

Following the state’s guidelines related to protecting vendors and visitors, the Main Street Calumet Farmers Market has been open since fresh vegetables have been available this year. The funding will help maintain high levels of safety for the remainder of the summer by helping the market purchase hand soap, paper towels, signage and more. This market fosters a sense of community, creates excitement in the downtown area and supports burgeoning entrepreneurs Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

$1,000 to Lake Linden Farmers Market

The Lake Linden Farmers Market has been offering customers a safe experience all summer following Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) resources, and with a $1,000 grant they’ll be able to keep that going. The funding will help replenish supplies of masks, hand sanitizer and wipes, while also allowing the market to purchase a new floor stand for their hand sanitizer and additional signage. The market is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Additional Farmers Market Support 

Portage Health Foundation (PHF) is supporting farmers markets in other ways as well.

Printed materials have been provided to all markets in the four-county region of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw and Ontonagon counties. These materials include Keweenaw Grown Foods rack cards and recipe cards featuring "Farmers Market Finds."

In June, the foundation announced a grant to Main Street Calumet that included a new token system. This token system allows shoppers to use credit cards with any vendor and better utilize Bridge Card benefits.

In collaboration with the Portage Lake District Library, PHF unveiled a new digital cooking series called Biblio Bistro. The series features recipes that include items purchased at local Farmers Markets. Watch the episodes at pldl.org/biblio-bistro.

This mini grant is part of the Portage Health Foundation Food Initiative. To learn more about this initiative, learn how you can get involved or make a donation to support the initiative, visit phfgive.org/food.

Public Notice announces public comment period for Enbridge's proposed Line 5 tunnel permit application

[Editor's Note: After attending the Aug. 6, 2020, EGLE (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy) "Webinar to help public track Line 5 tunnel application permitting process," during which a comment period beginning July 31, 2020, was mentioned -- without any information on the Public Notice for this comment period on the permits Enbridge is seeking for its proposed tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac -- Keweenaw Now contacted EGLE's Water Resources Department for assistance in locating the Public Notice. We are publishing it below, with a few changes in paragraphing. Please also see some helpful links in our notes at the end of the text.]

State of Michigan
Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
Water Resources Division
Gaylord Field Office

2100 West M-32

Gaylord, Michigan 49735-9282

Site Name: 24-Line 5 Enbridge Straits Tunnel
Submission Number: HNY-NHX4-FSR2Q
Date: July 31, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE

Enbridge Energy, Limited Partnership, 11 East Superior Street, Suite 125, Duluth, Minnesota 55802, has applied to this office for a permit under authority of Part 303, Wetlands Protection, and Part 325, Great Lakes Submerged Lands, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended (NREPA).

The applicant proposes to construct an approximately 3.58-mile tunnel connecting McGulpin Point (Lower Peninsula) to Point LaBarbe (Upper Peninsula) within the Straits of Mackinac. The project’s purpose is to accommodate the replacement of the portion of Line 5 twin pipelines that cross the straits. The tunnel is proposed to be constructed with a tunnel boring machine using pre-cast structural lining, providing secondary containment to prevent any spill from Line 5 or utilities into the straits. Two temporary water intake structures are proposed to be installed in the lake, one on each side of the Straits with a discharge pipe at the south.

The water intakes and discharge pipe are to be removed upon completion of tunnel construction. The applicant is proposing to impact 0.13 acres of wetlands at Point LaBarbe (Upper Peninsula) including existing road (Boulevard Drive) widening, fill for access around the existing North Straits Facility to a construction and staging area to the north of the facility and the installation of two outfall structures in wetlands. In lieu of wetland mitigation, a barrier plan has been proposed to address unauthorized vehicle impacts across Point LaBarbe. 

The proposal may affect northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), Houghton’s goldenrod (Solidago houghtonii), and dwarf lake iris (Iris lacustris), or their critical habitat. A Plant Mitigation Plan to address anticipated impacts to the two State Threatened plant species has been provided. Site clearing and grading is proposed to be completed during the winter months (i.e., October 30 to March 15) to minimize effects to environmental features such as nesting birds and roosting bats.

The project is located in Wawatam Township, Emmet County and Moran Township, Mackinac County, Michigan, in accordance with plans and specifications associated with this notice and available at https://miwaters.deq.state.mi.us/miwaters/#/external/publicnotice/search. To access the public notice page online, search for the public notice by application (submission) number, location or applicant name, and view by clicking on the "Documents" tab.*

A virtual public hearing will be announced in the near future.

THIS NOTICE IS NOT A PERMIT

The proposed project may also be regulated by one or more additional parts of the NREPA that are administered by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), Water Resources Division (WRD). The requirements of all applicable parts are considered in determining if a permit can be issued. When a permit application is received requesting authorization to work in or over the inland waters of the State of Michigan, pursuant to Part 303 and Part 325 of the NREPA, the NREPA provides that EGLE submit copies for review to the department of public health; the city, village, or township and county where the project is to be located; the local soil conservation district; and any local watershed council organized under Part 311, Local River Management, of the NREPA. Additional notification is provided to certain persons as required by statute or determined by EGLE.

Those persons wanting to make comments on the proposed project shall furnish this office with their written comments no later than 50 days from the date of this notice. Written comments will be made part of the record and should reference the above application number. Objections must be factual, specific, and fully describe the reasons upon which any objection is founded.

The specific permit decision criteria can be found in the parts of the NREPA applicable to this application and listed above. Copies of these parts of the NREPA are available on the public notice Web site. Public comments received will also be considered.

The entire copy of the public notice package may be viewed online at:
https://miwaters.deq.state.mi.us/miwaters/#/external/publicnotice/search. To access the public notice page online, search for the public notice by application (submission) number, location or applicant name, and view by clicking on the "Documents" tab. Comments may be sent electronically by clicking on the "Add Comment" tab.**

A hard copy of the public ) notice may be requested by calling 989-370-7893.

Editor's Notes:

* Click on this link to go directly to the Public Notice description with the "Documents" and "Add Comment" links.

At present, the "Documents" include the above public notice, the permit application, and a document describing the project.

** EGLE has also established a dedicated permit application email account related to the proposed tunnel project, EGLE-Enbridge-Comments@Michigan.gov to provide the public with a simplified means of commenting on the proposed project.

Water Protectors arrive at Great Bear after 2nd annual 4-day canoe/kayak trip on Menominee River against Back 40 mine

By Michele Bourdieu

On July 5, 2020, participants in the 2nd annual four-day Menominee canoe trip on the Menominee River are pictured with Great Bear, a statue at the mouth of the river -- the site of the cultural origins of the Menominee Tribe. The event is intended to call attention to environmental and cultural threats posed by the proposed Back 40 sulfide mining project. (Photo courtesy Dale Burie)

MENEKAUNEE HARBOR -- Native and non-Native water protectors in canoes and kayaks arrived at the mouth of the Menominee River on July 5, the fourth day of the second annual Menominee canoe trip in opposition to the proposed Back 40 mining project that threatens the health of the river as well as nearby Native sacred sites.

Canoers and kayakers set out on Day 4, July 5, 2020, the final day of their trip down the Menominee River in opposition to the proposed Back 40 mine. (Video © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

On Day 4, supporters join the original group of canoers and kayakers as they approach the mouth of the Menominee River. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

"We had a lot of supporters waiting for us at the Menominee bear and also a lot of canoers and kayakers that joined us on that last leg of the trip," said Wayne Swett, Menominee tribal member and co-organizer of the trip. "We must be well known on the river because people greeted us from shore and on the river."

Supporters of the canoers and kayakers welcome them as they approach their destination -- Menekaunee Harbor at the mouth of the Menominee River. (Video © and courtesy Gail Meyer)*

Swett, who made the trip a year ago with two other Menominee tribal members -- Dawn Wilber and Jwin Zillier -- said he was surprised at the number of people who joined them on the trip this year.

The three Menominee tribal members who made the first Canoe Trip last year -- from left, Dawn Wilber, Wayne Swett and Jwin Zillier -- pose for another photo with Great Bear on July 5, 2020. (Photo © and courtesy Tina Lesperance)

"At the end of the trip I asked if everyone was going to come back next year and everyone said that they are," Swett said. "I hope to see more people joining us on the trip next year."

Wayne Swett and co-organizer Dawn Wilber film each other and the arrival of the water protectors on Day 4 of the trip as they land their canoes and kayaks near the Great Bear. (Video © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Co-organizer Dawn Wilber said about 12 people did the whole 4-day trip, while seven joined for part of it. Five supporters helped on shore by transporting camping gear, supplying food and water, and portaging the canoes and kayaks when necessary.

"Having the shore helpers was really a blessing because it would've been a hard paddle with all our camping gear and stuff in the canoes," Swett noted. "Our shore helpers said they will be coming back again next year."

Swett noted he plans to contact the Marinette County Parks (Wis.) about their difficulty camping near Bear Point on the first night of the trip, after a heavy rainstorm. Keweenaw Now also eventually heard from Bev Ruether, Marinette County Parks and Facilities assistant director, who said the group is welcome to call her in advance next year and she will work with them to find a place to camp.*

"The guy who resides next to the Bear Point boat landing also said we could camp out on his land too," Swett added.

Mary Hansen of the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River was at the Great Bear with a welcome sign she made for the occasion.

Mary Hansen of the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, center, is pictured here at the Great Bear with Rick Prusak, left, and Lori Paitl. Prusak is holding the sign Mary made to welcome the canoers and kayakers home so she can use both hands to drive her wheelchair. Mary is active in organizing frequent protests against the Back 40 on Fridays. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

"I watched the tired warriors as they slowly came ashore, raising awareness for the river," Hansen told Keweenaw Now. "But to them it's so much more. It is their Creation Story. It is where they all began. We stand with them in solidarity. I am Blessed they call me Friend."

Renee Richer, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 108th State House District (Delta, Dickinson, and Menominee counties), was also on hand with her daughter, Camille, to welcome the water protectors. One of Richer's priorities is clean water. She has a PhD in biology from Harvard University and has spent her career studying the impacts of harmful pollutants on human health.

After welcoming the Menominee Canoe Trip participants, Renee Richer -- second from right, with her daughter, Camille -- chats with videographer Anthony Corey, center, and visitors from Door County, Wisconsin -- Jeff Lutsey and his son. (Photo courtesy Renee Richer)

Commenting on the event, Richer said, "It is wonderful to see so many people passionate about water quality issues and recognizing the link between water quality and human health."

Andi Rich, another clean water advocate -- who is running (as a Republican) for Wisconsin's 89th Assembly seat in the August 11 Wisconsin Primary -- participated in all four days of the Menominee Canoe Trip.

Andi Rich participates in a water ceremony during the Menominee Canoe Trip. (Photo © and courtesy Anthony Corey)

"The trip was incredible," Rich said. "It was such a peaceful time of quiet reflection, combined with a 4-day long water gun fight, and somehow it was the perfect combination."

During a hot day of paddling on the Menominee River, participants in the 2nd annual Menominee canoe and kayak trip have fun with "water wars." (Commentary and video by Wayne Swett)

Co-organizer Dawn Wilber said she appreciated the generosity of the Menominee Tribal School, who lent them a trailer with 10 canoes for the trip. She added that she invited people who she knew were interested in the cultural aspects of the trip, and some came from as far as five or six hours away, so it was good to have canoes for them.

"And a couple of my cousins, they brought their kayaks -- which was great, pretty awesome," Wilber added.

Wilber is also a teacher of Menominee language and culture at the Menominee Indian High School on the Menominee Reservation where she lives.

"We did a sunrise ceremony and a water ceremony (the first day), and that really gave us a feeling that we were in ceremony the whole way," she said. "That didn't mean that we couldn't  have fun and laugh and joke, because we did a lot of that."

Women do a water ceremony on the first day of the trip. (Photo © and courtesy Anthony Corey)

Another cultural activity was the harvesting of birch bark, imitating a practice of their ancestors who used the bark to make canoes. Even though Wilber and others were just learning how to cut and strip the bark and were taking only small pieces of the bark, it was important as a connection with the river and the ancestors -- to become a part of that history.

Dawn Wilber, Menominee tribal member and co-organizer of the Menominee canoe/kayak trip, harvests birch bark during the trip. (Video © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

"That's a connection that we as Menominees need to get with that river," Wilber said. "We need to be there. We need to travel that path that our ancestors did. And the birch bark was part of that."

Wilber said the group stayed together and kept track of each other even though individuals could take their time and explore. She said it was important to stop at the sand bars and cool off, and they hope to find more places to stop and cool off for the next trip.

Cooling off at the sand bars was essential for paddlers on the very hot days. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Siobhan Marks took this photo of Wayne Swett, as he films a sandbar stop, titling it "protector, fire keeper, navigator, jokester." (Photo © and courtesy Siobhan Marks)

"We took really good care of each other out there," Wilber said. "And friendships were made."

Wilber also said she wanted to commend the shore helpers, who did an amazing job of transporting their gear, setting up their tents, and more. She also wanted to thank Gary Rich, a cousin of Andi Rich, who helped with the birch bark as well as repairing some canoes that fell off the trailer.

"It was really amazing to have more people with us on this trip," Wilber said. "There was a huge camaraderie right away."

Wilber plans to do the trip every year -- even if she's 90!

Again this year, the group stopped at an island in the river that was gifted to the Menominee Tribe by Tom Boerner, a local resident who is involved in a contested case challenging the Part 632 Mining Permit for the proposed Back 40 mine.

Canoes and kayaks head for the Menominees' island, a peaceful stop on Day 4 of the trip. (Photo © and courtesy Siobhan Marks)

Anthony (Tony) Corey completed the four-day trip, taking videos for a documentary on the story of water, which includes the Menominee people on the Menominee River.

Anthony (Tony) Corey films a scene on the Menominee River during the 2020 Menominee Canoe Trip. (Photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

"It was a culturally immersive experience to be with the Menominees on the Menominee River," Corey said. "From participating in traditional ceremonies to gathering interviews with modern tools, I am learning that the Menominee People are not locked in the past as our history books tend to teach; rather, their story is still being written."

On Day 4, Corey captured the sounds of some baby ospreys in this video clip:

Videographer Anthony Corey captures the sounds of baby osprey in their nest along the river as he is canoeing with Wayne Swett. (Video © and courtesy Anthony Corey)

On Day 2 of this year's trip, Corey interviewed Jeff Linbom, a member of the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, who lives on the river. Here is an excerpt, filmed by Wayne Swett:

Videographer Anthony Corey interviews Jeff Linbom, a local resident who joined the canoers for part of the trip. (Video © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Dale Burie, president of the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc., and his wife, Lea Jane, were on hand for the Day 4 reception for the paddlers at the Great Bear. The Buries together founded the Coalition in April 2017.

"This event organized by the Menominees gives widespread coverage of the purpose, beauty and usefulness of the Menominee River," Dale Burie told Keweenaw Now. "The 4-day trip was over twice the size of last year's event. And it will grow even larger next year."

Coalition president offers update on Back 40 permits

Recently Dale Burie wrote a letter to the editor updating the status of Aquila Resources' Back 40 mining project, published on Aug. 1, 2020, by  the EagleHerald (a newspaper serving Marinette County, Wis., and Menominee County, Mich.) In his letter, Burie states the following about Aquila's permits:

"Aquila has yet to submit a tailings dam application to the State of Michigan, after withdrawing the first one in December 2019. If they submit a new application, a public hearing will be scheduled. The Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River, Inc. stands ready with an internationally recognized tailings dam expert to assess the construction plans, in preparation for the public hearing. With the failure of two dams near Midland, Michigan, and increased rainful due to severe climate change, all eyes are on EGLE of Michigan to be diligent in their decisions allowing ANY kind of dam within the state. The Coalition is also awaiting Administrative Law Judge Pulter's decision on our Wetlands Permit contested case hearing from last fall. We will likely be back in court to either defend his decision if we have won, or take our case further to Circuit Court."

Burie also states in the letter that the status of the five required permits has not changed since last January and that Aquila, despite their claims, actually has only one permit -- the NPDES water discharge permit. Three others are not "effective" because of conditions attached and because they are in litigation: the Part 632 Mining Permit Amendment, the Modified Air Quality Permit, and the Wetland Permit. The fifth is the Dam Safety Permit, mentioned above as withdrawn.**

Notes:

* See our July 3, 2020, article on Day 1 of the 2020 Menominee canoe trip, "Second annual Menominee canoe trip against Back 40 mine begins; water protectors overcome challenges on Menominee River."

Part 2 of this series of three articles is a guest article by Gail and Roger Meyer, who hosted the group on their third day of the trip: "Guest article: Hosting the water protectors on the Menominee River."

** Click here for the rest of Dale Burie's Aug. 1 letter. For more on the proposed tailings dam and Aquila's failure to have a social license to operate, see the Urban Milwaukee July 26, 2020, article, "Proposed Mine Faces Mounting Troubles:Back Forty Mine along Wisconsin border faces insufficient funding, increasing opposition," by Al Gedicks, emeritus professor of environmental sociology at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and executive secretary of the Wisconsin Resources Protection Council.

For some background on the permits and public opposition to the mine, see our Feb. 3, 2020, article, "Federal Circuit Court rejects Menominee Tribe's appeal on Back 40 mine wetlands permitting; most Back 40 permits remain in state contested case litigation."

Janet Metsa, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 110th State House District, speaks on economics, environment, education, energy

By Michele Bourdieu

Janet Metsa, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 110th State House District, outlines her background and platform priorities for supporters during her June 29 fundraiser in Calumet. (Photos by Keweenaw Now)

CALUMET -- At an outdoor patio fundraiser in Calumet on June 29, Janet Metsa, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 110th State House District, welcomed supporters, spoke about important issues and answered questions.

She first introduced herself as a Copper Country native, born in Houghton County and raised on the farm her grandparents established during the Finnish migration in the early 1900s. Metsa summarized her impressive educational and scientific background -- she went from Chassell schools to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) -- and described starting up her first business in the local area.

Janet Metsa, Democratic candidate for Michigan's 110th State House District, addresses supporters during a June 29 fundraiser in Calumet. (Videos by Keweenaw Now)

Metsa also pointed out how her environmental experience, combined with an educated work force -- experts and students from Michigan Tech -- plus her own determination and high-speed Internet helped her make her business a success. She noted the importance of protecting a healthy environment with a healthy economy and mentioned the local Smart Zone support of businesses as a model.

Candidate Metsa speaks about the four pillars of her platform: education, environment , energy and economy. She also notes her experience working with the Houghton County Democratic Party and why she considers herself a strong candidate, able to defeat the incumbent (Republican Greg Markkanen).

During the question-answer period following her presentation, Metsa replied to a question on Line 5:

Metsa explains why Democrats are in favor of shutting down Line 5, Enbridge's controversial 67-year-old pipeline that delivers some propane to the Upper Peninsula and also passes under the Straits of Mackinac, threatening the environment in the event of a potential catastrophic oil spill.

Another question from the audience concerned Metsa's vision for future businesses in the 110th district.

Pointing out her experience working with KEDA (the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance) and the Smart Zone, Metsa explains that most economic development in this area is home-grown. She notes the importance of Michigan Tech and a young educated work force.

Supporters at the June 29 fundraiser

Following her presentation, Janet Metsa took time to speak individually with supporters, including David and Giselle Shonnard, Portage Township residents.  

Jerry Mitchell:

Calumet resident Jerry Mitchell spoke about his Democratic values and his belief that Janet Metsa will fight for those values.

Scott Dianda:

Former 110th District State Representative Scott Dianda spoke in support of Janet Metsa as a strong Democratic candidate.

During the June 29 fundraiser, Scott Dianda, former 110th District State representative, spoke of his faith in Janet Metsa and endorsed her candidacy.*

"She's a great, solid person," Dianda said. "Her roots have been here for generations -- just like my family. I think Janet has the ability to understand what we need for the 110th District, from one end to the other."

Dianda added that Metsa's background in science and business, as well as her understanding of the importance of famiily and education, make her an excellent candidate.

Mark and Amy Wisti:

Mark Wisti -- retired Houghton County judge and attorney, and his wife, Amy Wisti, former aide to former 1st District US Congressman Bart Stupak -- are pictured here at Janet Metsa's fundraiser.

Active Democrats Mark and Amy Wisti of Houghton both commented on Janet Metsa's competence for the 110th District Michigan House seat.

"I thought she had a very sensible answer to the Line 5 issue," Mark Wisti said. "She seems very knowledgeable on the economic and the environmental issues. Given her background in science, she has a real understanding of the technical issues regarding the pipeline."

Amy Wisti added she believes Janet Metsa is "absolutely" qualified to represent the 110th.

"I've known Janet a long time and worked with her through the years and when she was chair of the Houghton County Democratic Party," Amy Wisti said.

Lisa Nelson:

Houghton resident Lisa Nelson told Keweenaw Now she is very impressed with Metsa's breadth of knowledge.

"She's clearly aware of the current issues and the pros and cons for different solutions," Nelson noted. "I feel like she's really researching options to find common-sense solutions."

Nelson, who works in education at Michigan Tech, said she would "definitely" vote for Janet Metsa.

"I think she's a really good candidate for this area -- she grew up here," Nelson said. "She's also got a wider lens. She's done a lot of things in her life. Her experience broadens her perspective."

Elo Wittig:

Welcoming supporters to the fundraiser, Elo Wittig, campaign aide for Janet Metsa, accepts a donation from Sarah Green, Michigan Tech professor of chemistry and interim Chemistry Department chair.

Elo Wittig, Janet Metsa's campaign aide, brings a strong educational background to his position. He is a graduate of Macalester College and a returned Peace Corps Volunteer.

"I meet a lot of interesting people doing this," Wittig said.

Metsa told Keweenaw Now she was very happy with the turnout at this fundraiser.

"I've been extraordinarily pleased with the enthusiastic response of people in Houghton County to my campaign," she said.

Metsa has received several endorsements from notable supporters, as indicated on her Web site.*

More recently, Janet Metsa held an online fundraiser via Zoom. Mike Prusi, former 3-term 109th District State Representative and 2-term State Senator for the 38th District, joined the Zoom discussion and announced his endorsement of Janet Metsa at that online event.

Prusi states the following:
"I’ve known Janet Metsa for nearly twenty years. The first, and in my view, the most important thing you learn about Janet is that when she takes on a task she makes sure that it’s done and done right. Whether it’s running her business, serving her community in an appointed role or volunteering in her church or political party, her organizational skills and willingness to work hard are valued by the people around her. They recognize that Janet sincerely cares about them and about the issues they are resolving. Caring and sisu are what she was taught by her Finnish forebearers when they immigrated to the Copper Country. We share that Finnish heritage and that sisu. I am proud to call Janet my friend and to offer her my endorsement as she seeks the nomination to be the Democratic candidate in the 110th State House District."

* Click here to see additional endorsements on friendsofjanetmetsa.com. See also Friends of Janet Metsa on Facebook.

Governor Whitmer amends MI Safe Start Order to limit indoor gatherings, save lives

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. (Photo courtesy michigan.gov)

LANSING -- On July 29, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-160 and Executive Order 2020-161, amending Michigan’s Safe Start Order and issuing revised workplace safeguards. Under the Safe Start Order, starting July 31, 2020, statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people and bars will be closed for indoor service across the state, including in Regions 6 and 8.*

"As we see COVID-19 cases continue to rise, Michiganders cannot afford to drop our guard. We must take every step possible to saave lives, protect the brave men and women on the front lines, and avoid overwhelming our healthcare system while we continue to combat COVID-19," said Governor Whitmer. "After seeing a resurgence in cases connected to social gatherings across the state, we must further limit gatherings for the health of our community and economy. By taking these strong actions, we will be better positioned to get our children back into classrooms and avoid a potentially devastating second wave."

COVID-19’s resurgence is closely associated with super-spreading events at large social gatherings, often attended by young people. An outbreak at a Lansing bar has resulted in 187 infections; more than 50 cases have been linked to a single house party in Saline; and a sandbar party at Torch Lake (downstate) over the July 4 weekend led to at least 43 confirmed cases. Therefore, Executive Order 2020-160 limits statewide indoor gatherings to 10 people or less and, across most of the state, limits outdoor gatherings to 100. (The outdoor gathering limits will remain at 250 in Regions 6 and 8.)

Executive Order 2020-160 also orders that bars in every region, including those in regions 6 and 8, must close for indoor service if they earn more than 70 percent of their gross receipts from sales of alcoholic beverages.

Under the governor’s orders, Detroit casinos will also be allowed to open on August 5, but their occupancy will be limited to 15 percent capacity. Casinos must also, among other things, conduct a daily entry screening protocol for customers and employees, temperature screening. Casinos must require patrons to wear a face covering, except while eating or drinking or for identification purposes.

Executive Order 2020-160 will rescind Executive Orders 2020-110, 2020-115, 2020-120, 2020-133, and 2020-143.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

To view Executive Order 2020-160 and Executive Order 2020-161, click the links below:

EO 2020-161 Emerg order - Workplace safeguards.pdf

EO 2020-160 Emerg order - MI Safe Start.pdf

* Region 8 includes the following counties: Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Keweenaw, Iron, Baraga, Dickinson, Marquette, Menominee, Delta, Alger, Schoolcraft, Luce, Mackinac, and Chippewa.

Images from Detroit Institute of Arts Permanent Collection on display outdoors in Hancock

The Trappers' Return, by George Caleb Bingham, part of the Detroit Institute of Arts exhibit outdoors in Hancock, will be unveiled at a special event July 30 in Porvoo Park. (Image courtesy Copper Country Community Arts Center)

HANCOCK -- The City of Hancock was chosen through a competitive application process to host the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) Annual Inside|Out program, which brings high-quality reproductions from the DIA’s collection to outdoor venues in communities throughout the state of Michigan. The local outdoor exhibition is a partnership of the Copper Country Community Arts Center, the City of Hancock, and Hancock Public Schools and is the only venue in the Upper Peninsula.

Seven full size, framed images will be installed throughout town in parks and green spaces on Quincy Street, Hancock Street, and Porvoo Park -- all within walking distance. An interactive map is available at the Copper Country Community Arts Center, City Hall, and other locations.

This map shows the locations of the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) Inside|Out images in Hancock. Click here for a larger version of the map. (Map courtesy Copper Country Community Arts Center)

A series of programs and activities will take place throughout the duration of the exhibition, which continues through the end of October.

Unveiling: Voyageur songs in Porvoo Park Thursday, July 30

Everyone is invited to an unveiling at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 30, in Porvoo Park, 200 Navy Street, Hancock. Dave Bezotte and Evan Dixon will perform French Voyageur songs in homage to George Caleb Bingham's image of The Trappers’ Return, which will be located at the park. People are encouraged to arrive by water in canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards in keeping with the theme of the painting.

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), one of the premier art museums in the United States, is home to more than 60,000 works of art. The DIA’s mission is to create opportunities for all visitors to find personal meaning in art. The Inside|Out program is a component of the DIA’s community engagement efforts focused on providing a unique way to engage with residents and visitors by bringing art from the DIA into the communities in which they live. Over the past 10 years, the museum has partnered with more than 100 communities and engaged tens of thousands of residents with art in places where they live, work, and play.

For more information about the DIA Inside Out art installation in Hancock contact Cynthia Cote, Executive Director of the Copper Country Community Arts Council at (906) 482-2333 or cynthia@coppercountryarts.com or visit the website: www.coppercountryarts.com.