New ballast treatment could help shield Lake Superior from deadly fish disease

Great Lakes cargo ship. (Photo courtesy Michigan Sea Grant. Reprinted with permission from Michigan Technological University.)

By Jennifer Donovan

HOUGHTON -- A Michigan Technological University professor has developed a new water treatment that could help keep a deadly fish disease out of Lake Superior.

David Hand, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Michigan Tech, has devised a simple way to treat ballast water in vessels ranging from pleasure craft to ore boats. His method is designed to kill the virus that causes viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS), an often-fatal disease that has been attacking fish populations in the lower Great Lakes.

Hand's treatment is simple. The ballast water is disinfected with sodium hypochlorite -- ordinary household bleach. Then it is treated with ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, which neutralizes the bleach before the water is released into the lake.

With good initial results, Hand has tested his method on the Ranger III, a National Park Service vessel that shuttles visitors and staff between the mainland and Isle Royale National Park ...

Click here to read the rest of this article, published June 4, 2008, on the Michigan Tech Web site.

Ed Gray Gallery to present two Keweenaw art exhibits

By Michele Bourdieu

CALUMET -- The Ed Gray Gallery in Calumet will feature two one-person art exhibits by Keweenaw artists in June and July.

"A Pleasant Peninsula" -- a one-person show by Calumet artist Jack Oyler will open with a reception from 6:30 p. m. to 9 p. m. on Friday, June 6, in the Gallery at 109 Fifth St., Calumet. This exhibit will continue through June 22.

"Crow is sleeping" is the title of this painting by Calumet artist Jack Oyler. It is part of the upcoming exhibit, "A Pleasant Peninsula," opening Friday, June 6, in the Ed Gray Gallery in Calumet. In his artist's statement, Oyler writes, "This year, there aren't as many crows but the crows that are still around have more interesting lives." (Photo courtesy Ed Gray Gallery. Reprinted with permission.)

The second exhibit, "Keweenaw Full Circle," oil and watercolor paintings by Kenneth Koskela, originally of Laurium, will open on Friday, June 27, and continue through July 27. An opening reception will be held from 6:30 p. m. to 9 p. m. on Friday, June 27.

These paintings by Kenneth Koskela can be seen now in the Ed Gray Gallery in Calumet. "Keweenaw Full Circle," a one-person exhibit of Koskela's work, opens June 27. (Photo © 2008 Gustavo Bourdieu)

"I have been enamored of the work of both of these artists," said Gallery owner Ed Gray, "because of the quality of their work and their humor -- not only in the paintings but also in the titles."

Calumet native Jack Oyler is a self-taught painter whose works have been widely exhibited across the Upper Peninsula.

These are some of Jack Oyler's paintings for his one-person exhibit, "A Pleasant Peninsula," opening Friday, June 6, in the Ed Gray Gallery in Calumet. (Photo © 2008 Gustavo Bourdieu)

"For the last year or so, I've been working on making my paintings smaller and simpler," Oyler notes. "Other than that, the only new element I'm using is Plastic, which seems full of possibilities for representation."

Artist Kenneth Koskela explains the title of his exhibit, "Keweenaw Full Circle," in his autobiographical artist's statement, in which he describes growing up in Laurium and traveling to many places before returning to the area.

"Life in Laurium was wonderful, long, long ago before noisy passenger jets and their con trails messed up our sky, diesel trains with more noise, 120 mile an hour cars, TV, boom box radios -- all those noise making distractions which came after Madison Avenue and Plastics made all silly desires possible and available," Koskela writes.

Koskela is nostalgic about the good life in those good old days -- "a farmer with a horse and wagon delivered fresh milk in bottles to the back door each morning, steam locomotives AKA Pumper Bellies, grand old cars, winter blizzards, outdoor winter ice skating rinks, great displays of The Northern Lights, seeing the Milky Way on moonless nights, sand lot ball games, walking to and from school, 12 cent double feature Saturday movies, 5 cent real ice cream cones, picking wild blue berries for a pie, Doctors making house calls ..."

"Meet the Author Today" is the title of this painting by Kenneth Koskela. The sandstone house of his childhood memories is still standing in Laurium. (Photo courtesy Ed Gray Gallery. Reprinted with permission.)

Koskela recalls a sandstone house, still standing in Laurium, which appears in his painting, "Meet the Author Today": "As I walked to and from school each day, I passed the pink sandstone house on First Street in Laurium four times. It's still one of my favorite buildings. During those years I sketched many of the other outstanding, late, Victorian homes in Laurium -- the remains of the C&H mining days -- each one a jewel of design and detail."

The Ed Gray Gallery and Studio, also known as Miskwabik, is located on historic Fifth Street in Calumet. Ed Gray, former director of the Vertin Gallery and an artist in his own right, moved here a few months ago. In addition, he publishes the Miskwabik Press at this location. The smoke-free building is also equipped with high-speed Internet.

Ed Gray, also known by his Native American name, Jikiwe, at work in his Gallery and Studio at 109 Fifth Street, Calumet. (Photo © 2008 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Gray also has an Artist-in-Residence Program with an Artist Studio/Apartment available for rent on the second floor of the building. The apartment has two large rooms, a kitchen and a bath. It is equipped with high-speed Internet and offers a visiting artist an opportunity to work, attend local events and enjoy the natural beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula.

The Gallery exhibits a variety of art works in its collection, including some of Gray's own and some by other artists for sale. (Photo © 2008 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a. m. to 5 p. m.; Friday, 10 a. m. to 9 p. m.; Saturday, 10 a. m. to 5 p. m.; and Sunday, noon to 5 p. m. For more information about the Miskwabik Ed Gray Gallery and Studio or the exhibits, call 906-337-5970 or visit the Gallery Web site.

Congressman Bart Stupak endorses Senator Barack Obama

WASHINGTON, D. C. -- The following is a statement from Congressman Bart Stupak, released at 10 p.m. EDT, on Tuesday, June 3, 2008:

"This has been an historic presidential primary election with phenomenal interest in our Democratic candidates. With the conclusion of today's South Dakota and Montana primaries, all Americans have had an opportunity to make their voices heard at the ballot box. Now that the nation's last primary ballot has been cast and an agreement has been reached to seat Michigan's delegates at the Democratic National Convention, I am proud to pledge my support to Senator Barack Obama's candidacy for President of the United States.

"While I am endorsing Senator Obama tonight, I must acknowledge the spirited and skillful campaign waged by Senator Hillary Clinton. Just as Senator Obama has energized a new group of voters, Senator Clinton's campaign has served as an inspiration to countless Americans. It is clear that she will continue to play a pivotal role in future Democratic Party policy and she will continue to provide inspiration to our sons and our daughters.

"Over the past several weeks I have had an opportunity to speak with Senator Clinton and Senator Obama about issues important to Michigan. I am confident that Senator Obama will provide the leadership necessary to improve our economy, protect our Great Lakes, provide health care for all Americans and put an end to the war in Iraq. I have invited the Senator to campaign with me in northern Michigan and share his vision for change with the people of the First Congressional District.

"One issue has been resoundingly clear throughout this primary process: Americans do not want four more years of the same failed policies that have driven our country deeper into debt and tarnished our reputation in the world. Senator Obama will provide the change we need to get our country back on track to prosperity and prominence."

Editor's Note: View photos of Barack Obama taken during his victory speech June 3, 2008, in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Flickr. Read the text of Obama's speech as prepared for delivery.

Updated: Celebrate spring June 7 at Houghton Art and Music Festival

HOUGHTON -- Celebrate the arrival of spring with the Houghton Spring Art and Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 7, on the waterfront near the UPPCO building in downtown Houghton. Now in its seventh year, the Art and Music Festival provides an opportunity to hear live local music and shop at regional artists' booths. The event is free and open to everyone.

Visitors to Houghton's 2007 Art and Music Festival check out booths with exhibits by local artists. (File photo © 2007 Keweenaw Now)

A bike parade will take place at 11:45 a.m. Youth can bring their bikes to the waterfront from 10 a. m. to 11:30 a. m. and decorate them prior to the parade. Family art activities will be held from noon to 3 p. m.

Music starts at noon and goes until 6 p. m. The official band line up includes the New Zeeland Jazz Apples at noon, the Squeaky Clean Cretins at 1 p. m., the On the Spot Blues Band at 2 p. m., Keweenaw Brewgrass at 3 p. m., the Blackflies at 4 p. m. and Hanna Bethel at 5 p. m.

The art fair starts at 11 a. m. and will feature a variety of art and fine craft. Current participating artists include Charles Young: silver jewelry; Dennis Sotala: pottery; Sue Stephens: fiber art-hats, shawls, purses, scarves; Christine Nakkula: paintings, cards; Deb Matthews: cloth dolls; Mark Bukovich: photography; Miram Dobrofsky: pottery; Wendy Johnson and Mojo Staley: natural wood and fabric children’s play things; Kenneth Nara: wildlife and historical drawings; Seri Robinson: wooden bowls and plates; Kris Schourek: photography; Sylvia Schourek: henna tattoos; Brandi Palomaki: polymer clay goods, glass beads; Stacy Karvonen: crocheted animal hats and fiber art; Kevin Maki: rustic furniture; Jeff Massie: photography; Mark Larson: Unkle Ake's Field Guide book; Andrea Puzakulich: garments and fashion minded paper goods; Stephanie Trevino: photography; Elissa Karstu: pen and ink drawings; and Deanna Attee: natural/herbal products. Many of the artists will be demonstrating their crafts.

Local artists Debbie Mues and Miriam Pickens visit at Miriam's pottery booth during the 2007 Art and Music Festival on the Houghton waterfront. (File photo © 2007 Keweenaw Now)

The Festival, sponsored by the City of Houghton and the Copper Country Community Arts Council, will also feature an Arts Center information booth and family art activities area. Food and refreshments will be available on site with an extreme bake sale to benefit the Community Arts Center. A special thanks to Adam Johnson at Brockit Solutions for help with planning and music line up and to Jessica Brassard for poster design.

Plenty of free parking will be available. For more information, call the Community Arts Center at 482-2333 or visit the Arts Center Web site.

Ride of Silence helps create bike safety awareness

Participants gather on the Michigan Tech campus to begin the 2008 Ride of Silence on May 21. (Photo © 2008 Philip Smythe. Reprinted with permission.)

HOUGHTON -- This year's Ride of Silence, on May 21, attracted 75 cyclists of all ages (the oldest was 78!) who rode to commemorate all bike riders who have lost their lives or been injured while riding on public roadways.

"Best ride yet," said Terry Smythe, fitness director of Keweenaw Memorial Rehab and Fitness Center. "The weather was cloudy and 52 with a north wind so it was cool riding."

Bike riders, young and old, participate in the Ride of Silence on May 21 in Houghton. They wear orange t-shirts to call attention to the need for safety on roads and awareness of cyclists' rights to use the roads. (Photo © 2008 Philip Smythe. Reprinted with permission.)

Riders rode in silence at a maximum of 12 m.p.h., with a Houghton Police escort.

"We are fortunate that we have not had a death up here since Nick Bell died 4 years ago on July 23 in Keweenaw County," Smythe added. "We do need to continue to encourage people to ride safely and defensively and obey traffic rules when riding as much as we need drivers to respect our right to share the road. It's an uphill battle in Michigan, but we are making strides."

Smythe noted the gas crisis is forcing people to walk and ride more and increasing their awareness of bike safety, yet motorists still need to be on the lookout and respect bike riders.

Lori Hauswirth, organizer of local community bike rides and races, writes, "This is a great event with a great mission: To RAISE AWARENESS that we are here (and) to ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD."

Bike riders in hundreds of locations worldwide participate in this international event. Visit the Ride of Silence Web site for more information and reports from various group participants in the 2008 event.

Heart and Hands award nominations due June 16

HANCOCK -- Nominations for the annual Keweenaw Heart and Hands award are due by Monday, June 16. Persons or couples who have given of themselves in the service of peace, justice or the environment in the local community are eligible.

Anyone can nominate a person or a couple for this award. The nomination form takes only a moment to fill out, and the recognition will mean a lot to a deserving individual! Nominations should include a description of how the candidate has had a significant impact on the Keweenaw community in the area of peace, justice, human needs and/or environmental stewardship. Please be specific about what form the person's contribution and involvement has taken.

The winners of this award will be honored during a 4th of July Celebration in Hancock. They will have their names engraved on the beautiful wooden sculpture pictured here and will receive $1000 to be designated to the non-profit charity of their choice. To obtain more information or a nomination form contact Terry Kinzel at 482-6827 or via e-mail at tkinzel@pasty.com.

More bird photos: Feathered friends observed in Chassell

CHASSELL -- Keweenaw wildlife photographer Michael Shupe often shares news of his observations of birds with readers of the local birder email list-serv. This week he shares with Keweenaw Now readers some excellent photos of two species he recently observed near Chassell -- the Savannah Sparrow and the White-Bellied Nuthatch.

Wildlife photographer Michael Shupe recently captured this close-up photo of a Savannah Sparrow near Chassell. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo © 2008 Michael Shupe. Reprinted with permission.)

"The Savannah Sparrow is one of a recent wave of migrants, and this one was out in Chassell in a wetland area," Shupe writes. "The White-Bellied Nuthatch is a frequent bird feeder visitor that lives here throughout the year. This one was photographed along the banks of the Snake River, in Chassell."

This White-Bellied Nuthatch was photographed along the Snake River in Chassell. Photographer Michael Shupe notes this species is local, living year-round in the Keweenaw. (Photo © 2008 Michael Shupe. Reprinted with permission.)

Shupe notes that both of these species should be common at Swedetown Creek as well.*

See more of Michael Shupe's photos of birds and other wildlife on his Web site. You can also see prints of his work in his Gallery at 514 Shelden Avenue in Houghton.

*See our May 26, 2008, updated article, "Migrating birds snack at Swedetown Creek."

Updated: Migrating birds snack at Swedetown Creek

HANCOCK -- Goldfinches and sparrows were among the feathered visitors who stopped for snacks at Swedetown Creek in Hancock this weekend. Russ Hanson has been maintaining a feeding station just off the parking area near the boat launch.

Three hungry goldfinches enjoy a snack at the bird feeders near Swedetown Creek in Hancock on Friday, May 23. Click on photo for larger version. (Photo © 2008 Gustavo Bourdieu)

A short walk down the path to the creek led to a peaceful spot near the water where the birdsongs seemed to announce the arrival of spring -- at last.

Swedetown Creek, near Portage Lake, is a peaceful spot for watching migratory birds and listening to their songs. (Video clip © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

The Copper Country Audubon Club has offered the City of Hancock $1000 and volunteer work for maintenance if the City decides to make the area at the mouth of Swedetown Creek a park.

Editor's Note: At their meeting on May 21, the Hancock City Council did not take a re-vote on whether or not Government Lot 5 is or should be a park. Watch for an update on this issue, coming soon.

Update: Whimbrel spotted at Hermit's Cove

On the other side of the Keweenaw Peninsula, a few miles north on U.S. 41, local birder David Flaspohler, associate professor in Michigan Tech's School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, spotted a Whimbrel at about 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 25. Flaspohler photographed the bird at Hermit's Cove, between Gay and Lac La Belle.

David Flaspohler spotted this Whimbrel Sunday morning, May 25, on the beach at Hermit's Cove, between Gay and Lac La Belle. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo © 2008 and courtesy David Flaspohler)


The Whimbrel is a kind of Curlew, a genus of wader or shorebird species that breed across areas of subarctic North America, Europe (as far south as Scotland) and Asia. In September 1977 the Whimbrel inspired a stamp in the Faroe Islands.

The Whimbrel is the subject of a stamp issued on Sept. 29, 1977, in the Faroe Islands, located between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, north of Scotland, between Iceland and Norway. The Faroe Islands (meaning "sheep islands") have been an autonomous region of the Kingdom of Denmark since 1948. This mage (from Wikipedia) is in the public domain, released by the copyright holder Postverk Føroya -- Philatelic Office.

Hancock's Swedetown Creek "issues" include mineral rights

By Michele Bourdieu

Swedetown Creek flows into Portage Lake in mid-April, 2008, as the snow melts. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

HANCOCK -- Whether or not Hancock's Government Lot 5, including the recreation area at the mouth of Swedetown Creek, will become a city park remains undecided. The issue may be discussed at the coming Hancock City Council meeting, to be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21.

One question concerning the City Council is a 1980 agreement between the City of Hancock and Superior Sand and Gravel (Thornton Construction Co., Inc.), which allows the company to remove sand and gravel from part of Government Lot 5.

This photo, taken about 150 yards north of the southeast corner of Government lot 5, looking south along the survey line marking the eastern boundary of Government Lot 5, shows Government Lot 5 to the west (right) and the a gravel pit apparently dug by Superior Land and Gravel on their property to the east (left). Portage Lake is in the background. A survey (note pink survey marker) of Government Lot 5 was taken recently at the request of the City of Hancock. (Photo © 2008 and courtesy John Slivon)

A recent letter from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) states, however, that the State of Michigan still owns the mineral rights to Government Lot 5.

At the Apr. 16, 2008, Hancock City Council Meeting local residents again expressed their wish that the Council approve the Swedetown Creek Ad Hoc Committee's recommendation that Government Lot 5 be recognized as a park.

Susan Burack, who spoke to residents who had attended the March 19 meeting of the Council, said those citizens came away from that meeting with "a sense of unreality," an impression that elected officials were not paying attention to voters' input.

"In a democracy," Burack said, "we hope that there's communication between elected officials and constituents. We're trying to get citizens involved in the community, and we hope that you will be responsive to citizens' input and communicate back."

Hancock resident Susan Burack addresses the City Council concerning Government Lot 5 at their Apr. 16, 2008, meeting. Also pictured is Councilman (and Mayor Pro Tem) William Laitila. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Burack noted the Ad Hoc Committee formed to look at Government Lot 5 did a lot of work, but their efforts seemed to be ignored by the other members of the Council. (They studied the 1941 Deed in which the area was given to the City of Hancock by the State of Michigan for recreational purposes, a 2003 deed, the City Charter and other documents and concluded that legally the area is still a park, although not listed in the City's list of parks.) The committee, made up of Council members Tom Gemignani, Lisa Mc Kenzie and Ted Belej, recommended at the March 19 meeting that the Council vote to make the area a park; however, a tie vote of 3-3 prevented the motion from passing.*

Allyson Jabusch of Hancock commented that she and other citizens feel the purpose for giving Government Lot 5 park status is to protect it from future moves to sell it. Jabusch said she is in favor of keeping just as it is -- in its natural state.

Allyson Jabusch addresses the Hancock City Council during the public comment period of their April 16, 2008, meeting. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Jabush referred to the fact that the Copper Country Audubon Club has offered $1000 and volunteers to maintain the area near the mouth of the creek, which has potential as a bird sanctuary. She noted that, while she is not an Audubon member, she would be happy to help clean up the area in the summer. She also mentioned a neighbor, born and raised in Hancock, who remembers large numbers of people smelting in the area in the past.

"I was really disappointed in that vote last time," Jabusch said. "I hope that this issue stays in the forefront somehow."

City Manager Glenn Anderson then replied to a question from Jabusch on the results of the tie vote at the March meeting.

"The motion didn't pass so the land remains as is," Anderson said.

Hancock resident Ann Pace asked for a clarification of the meaning of "as is."

During the April 16 meeting of the Hancock City Council, Ann Pace (standing, left) addresses the Council on the status of Swedetown Creek and Government Lot 5. Council members pictured are, from left, William Laitila, Ted Belej, City Manager Glenn Anderson and Mayor Barry Givens. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Anderson mentioned the City has owned Government Lot 5 since 1941 and added that, like much of City-owned land, it has many uses for a lot of people.

Joe Kaplan, who owns property in Hancock, spoke of "two facts" that he believes the Council needs to recognize in discussing Government Lot 5:

1. The 1941 deed from the State of Michigan giving the City ownership to Government Lot 5 says the land is to be used "solely for the purposes of park and recreation."

2. Section 14.3 of the Hancock City Charter of 1988 states that cemetery and park land cannot be sold without the approval of the voters.

Kaplan noted facts that occurred after the Charter's adoption in 1988, such as the State (Department of Natural Resources) releasing the reverter clause in 2003 or opinions of the Recreation Commission, are not relevant since they occurred after the Charter's adoption in 1988.

Kaplan said he appreciated the fact that the Ad Hoc Committee made the connection between these two facts in their recommendation to confirm the park status of Government Lot 5.

"They've done a great job," Kaplan said.

Kaplan noted also that "park is not synonymous with spending money."

The fact that in 67 years the City has not spent a penny for upkeep or maintenance of this area, he said, is testimony that protecting natural areas does not add a financial burden on the City or the taxpayers.

"Voting to recognize Government Lot 5 as a park means only one thing: that the Hancock City Council respects the citizens of Hancock enough to seek approval by their voters before selling the land for private purposes," Kaplan said. "I don't think it's a lot to ask for the Council to respect the citizens, and the citizens have been speaking about this unanimously for the last eight months."

Councilor Bill Laitila, who was absent from the March City Council meeting, said, "The Lot 5 issue is one that I guess we're going to have to deal with sooner or later."

He said he trusted the Ad Hoc Committee's judgment on the issue of the park.

Laitila mentioned hearing Michigan Tech alumni fraternity members recently reminiscing about smelting at the mouth of Swedetown Creek. He also said he had spoken to a number of people in favor of preserving Swedetown Creek. Laitila pointed out, however, that Councilor James Hainault, who has had different views on the issue, was absent from this meeting.

"If we do make any further resolution, we should have a full Council here," Laitila said.

Mayor Barry Givens said he still had unresolved issues, including a 1980 contract between the City of Hancock and Superior Sand and Gravel (Thornton Construction Co., Inc.). The contract, which included a property exchange, also stated the following: "The City agrees to sell and Thornton agrees to buy gravel which is located in Government Lot 5, Section 28, Township 55 North, Range 34 West, more particularly described as follows:
All gravel which lies above the 730 foot contour line and which is located to the East of the said contour line extending to the East line of the said Section 28, and adjacent to property owned by Superior Sand and Gravel Inc."

City Manager Glenn Anderson said the issue of the contract came up after the Swedetown Creek Ad Hoc Committee meeting last March.

Councilor Lisa McKenzie asked, "Did the City have authority to sell gravel from land designated at that time for park and recreation use only?"

McKenzie noted designating the area as a park first could solve the "issues" Givens said were unresolved. (Another is a house located on Government Lot 5.)

Givens, however, indicated he wanted the "issues" resolved before voting on the park status. He asked the Ad Hoc Committee members to "keep working on those issues."

When asked whether he thought the 1941 deed (designating Government Lot 5 for park and recreation purposes only) made the 1980 contract for gravel extraction illegal, Anderson replied, "That's a legal issue -- for courts to decide."

Givens acknowledged that asking the City attorney to study the issue might be the next step, in order to avoid a potential lawsuit should the City not honor a valid contract.

In a phone conversation with Keweenaw Now on May 16, 2008, Patrick Thornton, president of Superior Sand and Gravel, said he was aware of residents' concerns about the Swedetown Creek area.

"I'm not saying that we would mine our property that crosses Swedetown Creek," Thornton said. "We like having the creek there, and we realize people like to hike and bike there. We try and work with the organizations that like to use our property for hiking, biking, skiing and other (recreational) activities."

Thornton mentioned his support of the Maasto Hiihto Trails used both for skiing and the annual Chain Drive Bike Race.

"We're happy to work with the community in that regard," he said. "But I won't come out and say that I'm in favor of a park that's going to prevent us from mining on our property."

Thornton said that while he couldn't promise it, he didn't think the company would mine near the creek.

"We like that area, too," he added. "I'm perfectly aware that the DNR/DEQ would have to approve mining near wetlands. We presently work with the DEQ in our operations."

Lori Underwood, Land Use specialist for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), wrote to Councilor Tom Gemignani, chair of the Ad Hoc Committee, on May 6, 2008, concerning the mineral rights for Government Lot 5.

In her letter, Underwood states, "The State of Michigan retained the mineral rights for this parcel, including sand and gravel, as described in the enclosed (1941) deed. In 2003 when the reverter clause on the public use deed was released, the minerals were not included. As such, any sand and gravel, or other mineral extraction, will require approval from the Department of Natural Resources."

Thornton said he wasn't aware of the DNR letter.

"I have to assume that the City owned what they traded us," Thornton said. "We traded land for the rights to mine."

* Editor's Note: See our Apr. 15, 2008, article on Swedetown Creek.

MTU students honor earthquake victims with vigil, fundraising

Michigan Tech students, faculty and staff members gather in front of the Memorial Union Building (MUB) at noon on Tuesday, May 20, for a candlelight vigil in honor of the thousands of victims of the 7.8 M earthquake that has erased several cities and towns in the Sichuan province of China since it struck on May 12, 2008. The speaker is Chao Zhong, vice-president of the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA). The group is raising funds to help the earthquake victims. (Video clip by Michele Bourdieu)

HOUGHTON -- Strong winds on the Michigan Tech campus today did not discourage students, faculty and staff from lighting candles for moments of silence and prayer to honor the thousands killed, injured and missing since the May 12, 2008, earthquake hit the Sichuan province of China.

Vigil participants hold lighted candles during a moment of silence in honor of the earthquake victims in China. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Michigan Tech's Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA), International Programs and Services and a number of Black students' organizations sponsored the vigil and offered refreshments afterwards to participants.

Chao Zhong, center, CSSA vice-president, leads the vigil participants in some moments of silence and prayer to honor earthquake victims in China. CSSA, MTU's International Programs and Services and several Black students' organizations sponsored the vigil. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

MTU's Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) is collecting donations for the earthquake victims. They will have a donation table in the MUB Commons from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, the third day of their donation event. Those who wish to donate off campus or at another time can write a check made out to CSSA 2008 Earthquake Donation and deposit it in their account at the Wells Fargo Bank. Visit the CSSA Web site for more details on how to donate or email czhong@mtu.edu.

CSSA volunteers Guang Zhang of Hunan province, not far from the earthquake site, and Jiesheng (Jason) Wang of Auhui province volunteer at the CSSA donation table in the MUB on the Michigan Tech campus Tuesday, May 20, after the vigil. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Donations can also be made directly through the Embassy of China Web site or by phone at 202-328-2500 or 202-328-2574.

MTU students to hold candlelight vigil for Chinese earthquake victims May 20

HOUGHTON -- In response to the recent earthquake that struck the province of Sichuan in China, Michigan Tech's Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA), with International Programs and Services, will hold a candlelight vigil at noon on Tuesday, May 20, in front of the Memorial Union Building on the MTU campus.

This earthquake has demolished villages, brought death and injury to thousands of people and left thousands without shelter.

CSSA has established a special relief account at Wells Fargo Bank titled "2008 Earthquake Donation." CSSA is also collecting donations. For more information, contact Chao Zhong, CSSA vice president, at czhong@mtu.edu. Visit the CSSA Web site for details on how to donate.

On the Web site also is a letter from MTU student Ling Guo, who went back to her hometown Chengdu and experienced the earthquake on May 12, 2008.

The candlelight vigil is co-sponsored by a number of Black student organizations, including the Black Students Association, the National Society of Black Engineers and others.

Ride of Silence for cyclists to be held in Houghton May 21

HOUGHTON -- The Ride of Silence to commemorate all the cyclists who have lost their lives or been injured while riding on public roadways will take place in hundreds of locations around the world, including Houghton, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21.

Cyclists who wish to participate should meet at 6:45 p.m. at the latest in the Michigan Tech MUB parking lot. The ride begins at 7 p.m. sharp. Cyclists will ride a distance of 12 miles at 12 m.p.h. in Silence. The Houghton Police will escort the participants.

Cyclists should dress appropriately for the weather and remember HELMETS. Riders who participated last year should wear their orange shirts. Terry Smythe, fitness director for Keweenaw Memorial Rehab and Fitness Center, will hand out extra shirts, while the supply lasts, to anyone new to the ride.

The ride, which is held during Bike Safety month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for those who have been killed or injured.

Visit the Web site, www.rideofsilence.org for more information and a short You Tube video on this international event.

Copperman Web site posted

Cyclists may also wish to know that the Web site for the Copperman Triathlon, to be held Aug. 2, 2008, in Copper Harbor, is now posted on line. The event -- which includes swimming, biking and running -- is sponsored by the Keweenaw Memorial Medical Center. Visit the Web site at www.keweenawcopperman.org.

Volunteers are needed. Email info@keweenawcopperman.org if you can help. Participants should register soon since entries are limited to the first 320. Last year the event was filled to capacity.

5th and Elm Coffee House to host Poetry Reading May 16

CALUMET -- A Community Poetry Reading will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, May 16, at the 5th and Elm Coffee House in Calumet. Bring your own poems to read or poems by your favorite poet or your least favorite, or just come to listen and enjoy good coffee. For more information email Michael Moore at mmoore@mtu.edu.

Vertin Gallery to hold artist's reception for Bernie Park May 16

"Veil" -- Oil on Birch Panel, by Bernie Park. (Photo courtesy Keweenaw Krayons)

CALUMET -- An artist's reception for "Hit the Ground… Running?" -- an exhibit of work by Marquette painter and printmaker Bernie Park -- will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, May 16, at the Vertin Gallery in Calumet.

The show, which runs through June 18, consists of oil and encaustic (wax and pigment emulsion) on solid surfaces.

"I am inspired by the natural beauty of the landscape as well as the sociological and psychological constructs that cause people to act rationally in an otherwise irrational world," Park says.

Park, who serves as curator and treasurer of Oasis Gallery in Marquette, paints on such surfaces as plywood or fiberboard. Painting both on an easel or wall, and flat on a table or floor, Park approaches the panel from all sides, controlling viscous paint that runs and sags. He uses brushes, rollers, graphite, charcoal and a host of other tools and techniques to manipulate paint and further articulate the surface, sometimes adding shaped supports that extend space beyond the two-dimensional, rectangular pictorial plane.

"I often employ marks reminiscent of ancient pictographs or graffiti -- marks that witness or declare, 'I exist,'" states Park. "My use of these marks may be literal or absurd, cryptic or humorous."

Park describes his process as intuitive but controlled and purposeful.

"I try not to violate the formal figure/ground relationship," he explains. "I hope that the very human scale, varied shapes and vibrant color are accompanied by a little buzz of the cerebral."

Park’s work is influenced by 1970s East Coast color field painting and minimalist sensibilities.

Artist Joyce Koskenmaki says Park is a Marquette artist whose work she has greatly admired for years.

"I highly recommend this show!" Koskenmaki adds.

For more information about the exhibit, reception or the Vertin Gallery, call Gallery Associate Kerri Corser at 906-337-2200.

Public invited to meeting on Eagle River Watershed Management Plan May 19

HOUGHTON -- The Houghton Keweenaw conservation District will hold a Public Meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, May 19, at the Houghton Township Hall in Eagle River, Mich. The public is invited to learn about and contribute to the Eagle River Watershed Management Plan.

Participation by constituents who live and work in the Eagle River Watershed is a top priority. Topics to be discussed at the meeting include the following:

• Eagle River Watershed Project Overview
• Water Quality Findings
• Fishery Findings
• Preliminary Recommendations
• Comments and Input from the public

Eagle River Falls in early spring. (Keweenaw Now file photo © 2006 Gustavo Bourdieu)

Your feedback will help create a Management Plan that reflects the needs of the Eagle River Watershed Management Community. For more information email sue.haralson@mi.nacdnet.net or call 906-482-0214.

Updated: Hancock Boy Scouts plant trees at Maasto Hiihto Trails

By Michele Bourdieu

With helpful advice from Scout Leader Brian Jarvis, right, George Mendivel, 8, left, and Jake Riley, 13, of Hancock Scout Troop 207, dig holes for planting new trees at Hancock's Maasto Hiihto Trails on Saturday, May 3. The trees were purchased from the Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District Tree Sale. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

HANCOCK -- Members of Hancock Boy Scout Troop 207 and Cub Scout Pack 207 braved a cold, rainy Saturday, May 3, to plant trees at the Maasto Hiihto trails as a community service project. The Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club purchased the 200 young trees -- a combination of red pine and white spruce -- from the Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District Tree Sale.

Since Friday and Saturday, May 2-3, were the pick-up days for the tree sale, the planting was scheduled for Saturday morning.

"The trees can't wait," said Dale Dewald, scoutmaster for Cub Scout Pack 207. "They've got to be planted, rain or shine."

Using foot power on the shovel, Alexander Dewald, 10, digs a hole for tree planting with help from Dad, Dale Dewald, scoutmaster for Cub Scout Pack 207. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

In spite of the rain, Dewald's son Alexander, 10, who will soon be advancing from Cub Scouts to Boy Scout Troop 207, said it was "fun."

Another father-and-son pair, Dillon Babcock, 12, and his Dad, Louis Babcock, help prepare the ground for the new young trees. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

The Scouts worked up an appetite for lunch -- grilled ham and cheese sandwiches -- to be cooked over a campfire at the Trailhead near the Chalet.

Preparing the campfire for the hot lunch of grilled ham and cheese sandwiches are Jacob Jarvis, 12, center, and Drew Meyer, 10. Supervising the campfire crew is Scout Leader Mike Meyer, Drew's Dad. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

Scout Leader Mike Meyer said the troop had planted trees in the past, but this was the first time they would cook their own lunch.

"It's a good chance for the boys to learn how to be outside while it's raining," Meyer said, "and to do something for the community by planting trees."

The suggestion for this project came from Wayne Stordahl, Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club member and former scoutmaster of Troop 207. He said this is the second time the Hancock Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts have planted trees along the ski trails. The tree planting project actually began about 30 years ago when he was Troop 207 Scoutmaster. At that time the Scouts planted trees along the west edge of the Driving Park Ball Fields, he noted.

"They're about 30 feet high now," Stordahl said of those first trees. "They're a wind break and a vision break for the ball players."

John Diebel, Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club board member, said the evergreens planted by the Scouts near the chalet and along the ski trails also serve as wind breaks for skiers, while adding a little variety to the landscape.

"Skiers know the open area around the chalet parking lot and adjacent St. Urho's trail can be more than brisk when that north wind blows," Diebel noted. "The Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club appreciates (the Scouts') continuing interest in the project. It serves the entire community and as the Scouts get older I think they'll always be able to take some satisfaction in seeing the trees continue to grow. We hope those trees are sheltering the Scouts' grandchildren years from now."

Stordahl said his daughter, Karen Fenton, Cub Scout den leader for Pack 207, was also involved in this community service project.

New community email list offers local food options

KEWEENAW PENINSULA -- A new email list-serv offers area residents the opportunity to buy, barter and sell locally grown and raised produce, livestock, meats and crafts.

Nutmeg the goat is an example of locally raised livestock. Goat's milk or cheese anyone? Check out the new list-serv for buying, selling or trading locally grown food. (Photo © 2008 Neely Farren)

"This group is dedicated to helping people live locally," writes Neely Farren, one of the organizers of the group. "Sustainability and education are of prime importance to us."

Farren and co-organizer Casey Rudkin set up the email list to provide a venue for like-minded people to expand their local purchase options and connect with others in their community. Group members can post notice of their extra produce, requests for locally raised eggs and meat, or even local agricultural information.

"In this way, we hope to expand availability and allow us all to enjoy the variety and bounty of the Keweenaw," Farren notes.

Bill the Pig reminds readers that it's not just vegetarians who eat locally grown food! (Photo © 2008 Kurt Paterson)

Anyone interested in joining this list-serv should go to
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/keweenawbbslocal/ to read some of the latest messages. To subscribe to this Yahoo group, send an email to keweenawbbslocal-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Hancock's Tori Market to open June 4

A recent message on the keweenawbbslocal group list announces the opening of this year's Tori Market in Hancock on Wednesday, June 4.

The hours will be 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday during the season.

A meeting for those interested in the Tori will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20, at Perkins Restaurant in Houghton. Anyone interested in attending the meeting should call Jeanne at 482-1605 or email Sandy at sandysbaskets@ pasty.net.

Houghton High Boosters Club to hold Green/recycling rummage sale May 10

HOUGHTON -- The Houghton Portage Township Schools Academic Boosters Club is conducting a GREEN/Recycling fundraiser, with a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, at the Houghton High School Multipurpose Room.

There's nothing to buy. The group is asking you to protect the environment by donating your used cellular phones, ink jet and laser cartridges, DVD movies, video games, portable DVD players, laptop/notebook computers, MP3 players, video game consoles, digital cameras, digital picture frames and portable navigation and GPS devices. Your used items may be tax-deductible and will be recycled in accordance with EPA regulations or refurbished and sold.

100% of the proceeds will help fund the Houghton Portage Township Schools Academic Boosters Club -- a newly organized club with the goal of creating funding for academic teams and programs made up of short-term liquid and long-term endowed accounts, designed to help sustain for today and the future. With multiple state and federal funding cuts, academic programs are running very low or are completely eliminated. The students that participate in these programs benefit greatly for the rest of their lives, as they develop academic skills as well as social confidence.

Most of the programs are recognized nationwide as highly beneficial for scholarship and college admissions. Some of the programs that will benefit are these: Destination Imagination, Science Olympiad, Lego League, Math Counts, Math League, Language Club, Ecology Club, Quiz Bowl, Model UN, Chemistry Olympiad, 1st Robotics and Jr. Statesmen of America.

Consider gathering what you can donate and bring it to the Houghton High School Multipurpose Room this Saturday. You may also email yooperyardsale@yahoogroups.com for information about possible pick-up. Donations of any returnable cans or bottles to support this valuable program are also appreciated. Cash contributions to the fund are always welcome and truly appreciated and are tax-deductible.

Melissa Davis to give presentations on Green Power Plant May 8, 13

Melissa Davis, general manager of New Power Tour, Inc., speaks about Green Power during the Earth Day events Apr. 19 at the Calumet Theatre. (Photo © 2008 Michele Bourdieu)

LAURIUM -- Melissa Davis, general manager of New Power Tour, Inc., will give a presentation titled "Green Power Plant: Renewable Cogeneration and Economic Trigger" in Lake Linden and Ahmeek this month. Davis is introducing the opportunity to locally own a power plant that generates both green electricity and food.

If you missed her presentation on May 6 in Lake Linden, you can attend one at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the Lake Linden Village Hall or at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, at the Ahmeek Village Hall. The presentations are open to the public.

"Our partners (MTU Sustainable Futures Institute, White Pine Power, MSU Ext and Public Service Commission Renewable Energy Coordinator) are having our first formal meeting on May 16," Davis announced.

These groups are working with guidance from Michigan Public Service Commission's Renewable Energy Coordinator to offer local investors the opportunity to build a small-scale renewable cogenerating power facility that combines wind, solar, biomass +/-biomethane.

Visit the New Power Tour Web site for more information.

Keweenaw County Board announces meeting sites

EAGLE RIVER -- The Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners meets at 6:30 p.m. tonight, May 7, at the Horizon School, Mohawk, MI. The Board will continue to meet the first and third Wednesday of the month.

On the following dates the meetings will be held at locations other than the Horizon School:
May 21 -- Eagle Harbor Community Building
June 18 -- Sherman Township Office Building, Gay
July 16 -- Copper Harbor Community Building
August 6 -- Lac La Belle Fire Hall
August 20-- Houghton Township Office Building, Eagle River
September 3 -- Eagle Harbor Community Building.

Editor's Note: This information is courtesy Marilyn Winquist, Keweenaw County clerk.

Stupak warns of phone, email scams regarding economic stimulus rebate payments

WASHINGTON, DC -- As federal tax rebate payments begin hitting bank accounts and mailboxes across northern Michigan, U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) warned constituents to be aware of telephone and email scammers posing as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employees in order to collect personal financial information. Such scams are expected to continue indefinitely.

"The public should be on the alert for any emails or phone calls that claim to be from the IRS and request personal information such as bank account and Social Security numbers," Stupak said. "The IRS does not require any additional information from taxpayers to process tax rebate payments."

According to the IRS, some people have received phone calls about the economic stimulus payments, in which the caller impersonates an IRS employee. The caller asks the taxpayer for their Social Security and bank account numbers, claiming that the IRS needs the information to complete the processing of the taxpayer's payment. In reality, the IRS uses the information contained on the taxpayer's tax return to process stimulus payments, rather than contacting taxpayers by phone or e-mail.

Similarly, an e-mail claiming to come from the IRS about the "2008 Economic Stimulus Refund" tells recipients to click on a link to fill out a form, apparently for direct deposit of the payment into their bank account. This appears to be an identity theft scheme to obtain recipients' personal and financial information so the scammers can clean out their victims' financial accounts. In reality, taxpayers do not have to fill out a separate form to have the stimulus payment directly deposited in their bank account.

The goal of such scams is to trick people into revealing personal and financial information, such as Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers, which the scammers can use to commit identity theft.

Anyone wishing to access the IRS Web site should initiate contact by typing the IRS.gov address into their Internet address window, rather than clicking on a link in an e-mail or opening an attachment.

For more details and examples of this, visit Congressman Stupak's Web site.

Editor's Note: This press release is courtesy Nick Choate.

Kennecott's Eagle Project sulfide mine: Is this just the beginning?

A fall 2006 view of the Salmon Trout River, which flows through an area proposed for Kennecott Minerals' Eagle Project sulfide mine. The river contains a rare population of Coaster Brook Trout. (File photo © 2007 and courtesy lexup at Save the Wild UP.)

Editor's Note: A contested case hearing challenging mining and groundwater permits for a Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company nickel and copper mine in northern Marquette County began Monday, Apr. 28, in Lansing and is expected to continue for several weeks. The National Wildlife Federation, Huron Mountain Club, Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve and Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are challenging the issuance of these permits by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.* This article is the second in a two-part series on plans by Kennecott and other mining companies for future mining in the Upper Peninsula.

By Emily Svenson

The U.P.’s past as a mining district may be making a resurgence as mining companies such as Kennecott, BHP Billiton, and others scope out mineral resources.

Cynthia Pryor, Executive Director of the Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve says, "Kennecott and their parent company Rio Tinto put out a recent press release indicating that they have at least six new sites they may work into mining ventures."

Cynthia Pryor, executive director for the Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve, addresses the issue of sulfide mining on the Yellow Dog Plains at a meeting of Friends of the Land of Keweenaw (FOLK) at the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Senior Citizens Center in Baraga. (Keweenaw Now file photo © 2006 Michele Bourdieu)

Speaking of the Eagle Project, Pryor says, "This is dangerous. It’s dealing with sulfide ores and uranium, and it’s snowballing. That’s why we’re so focused on this case. Companies are waiting for this case to get cleared up so they can see how the courts handle the situation."

If the State of Michigan gives Kennecott the go ahead with the mine on the Yellow Dog, companies may start swarming the U.P. to tap its vast mineral resources. The map below, courtesy of Save the Wild UP and Northwoods Wilderness Recovery, shows mineral rights and mining plans for the U.P.

This map shows mineral rights and mining plans by several companies in areas beyond Kennecott's present Eagle Project. Click on map for larger version. (Map courtesy Save the Wild UP and Northwoods Wilderness Recovery. Reprinted with permission.)

Michelle Halley, an attorney for the National Wildlife Federation, says, "The U.P.'s most valuable natural resource is the Great Lakes. The history of sulfide mining demonstrates that it would put the Lakes and their tributaries at risk. Our planning for the U.P.'s future should extend beyond the 10-year horizon and take into account the world's need for fresh water and protect the blessing of it here in the U.P."

Vast Majority of U.S. minerals exported

Pryor says, "Most of the metals extracted today go to feed China’s extensive growth. Rio Tinto and other major mining companies sell their minerals to China."

According to the Associated Press, China recently tried to buy Rio Tinto for $200 billion. BHP Billiton, the world’s largest mining company, also tried to buy Rio, the world’s third largest, for $147.4 billion. Rio rejected both offers. China, Rio Tinto’s biggest customer, is currently boycotting both Rio and BHP Billiton.**

"China's extraordinary appetite for resources has almost single-handedly powered the Australian economy through a downturn in the rest of the developed world," writes John Garnaut of The Sydney Morning Herald, "but the Chinese boycott of BHP and Rio shipments shows the extent of Chinese concerns about the rising market power of the world's largest and third largest miners, which would be greatly magnified if BHP succeeds in acquiring Rio."***

Australia considers China a powerful economic ally.

Paul Campbell, a resident of Calumet and Lac LaBelle, has been involved in the Kennecott Eagle Project as a local citizen. He has been to public DEQ forums and informational meetings and is strongly supportive of any groups that oppose sulfide mining in the U.P. However, he is not affiliated with any group.

"Because of China and India’s emerging economies, precious mineral prices have skyrocketed," Campbell notes. "Kennecott and other mining companies here in the U.P. have responded to China and are taking advantage of the potential to make high dollars for their investors without any regard to the long-term consequences of their actions to the land and people."

Campbell mentions China’s massive air pollution problem as they rapidly industrialize using coal-fired furnaces.

"The documented [air] pollution we get from China here in the U.P. is caused by their cheap, simplistic industrial complex, using coal-fired furnaces. So in reality, the very problematic sulfide ore that will affect our land, as it is being mined, exposed, processed and then shipped to China will also come back to haunt us. Unfortunately, this reminds me of Catch 22," Campbell says. "It is believed by some that China will surpass us as a world power by 2035."

Granholm Town Hall Meeting deemed orchestrated and disappointing

Pryor also commented on a recent Town Hall Meeting with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm broadcast from Grand Rapids.

"The meeting was orchestrated to give answers to pre-arranged questions that would enable the Governor the ability to respond to all questions with an upbeat answer." Pryor said.

According to Pryor, Granholm "took the easy way out" by not addressing issues of immediate concern to many citizens.

"She knew I wanted to talk about her vision of the U.P. with the insurgence of all the proposed mines and escalating minerals explorations," Pryor added, "but she chose to ignore the question and the concern."

According to a report by Ted Roelofs of The Grand Rapids Press, Governor Granholm believes she will be able to improve Michigan’s economy by developing jobs in medicine and biotechnology, job retraining and providing incentives to encourage alternative and renewable energy development.

"She pointed to Sweden as a possible model for Michigan, noting it has created 400,000 jobs in renewable and alternative energy. Sweden, like Michigan, has about 10 million people, enjoys a long coastline, and has abundant forests," Roelofs writes.****

Although Granholm says she wants to provide incentives for renewable energy, she does not seem to resist the development of mines in the U.P., as long as companies follow the mining rules recently put into place in Michigan.

We live in a beautiful place

Marquette was listed in the April 2008 issue of Outdoor Life magazine as #7 in the 200 best towns to live in the U.S. for hunters and anglers. Marquette was noted for its natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities.*****

So often, people from other places, such as Chicago or Green Bay, say they wish they could live in the U.P. because of its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, such as skiing, camping, and snowmobiling. If mining makes a major resurgence, will the U.P. still be a vacation destination? Will it still have the natural beauty that draws people here and makes them envious of those fortunate enough to live here year round? Residents of the U.P. are so lucky to be surrounded by clean air and water; this heritage needs to be preserved for future generations.

Campbell asks, "What pathway do we want? Will we get leaders who lead and who will show respect for the land and people to bring us together? If we don’t, what will the future hold for our Children, our Precious Minerals?"

Notes:

* See updates on the contested case hearing on Save the Wild UP.

** See the Feb. 2008 Associated Press article, "Rio Tinto Rejects $147.4. Billion Take-Over Bid."

*** See "China locks out BHP and Rio ore." The Sydney Morning Herald. March
18, 2008.

**** See "Granholm’s Town Hall Meeting Frustrates Attendees." The Grand Rapids Press. March 20, 2008.

***** See "Paradise Found." Outdoor Life Magazine. April 2008.

Visit the Yellow Dog Watershed Preserve Web site for a slide show of photos of the area threatened by the Eagle Project.

Emily Svenson, the author of this article, is a free lance writer and Keweenaw Now visiting reporter. The first article in this series, "Will Kennecott mine the Yellow Dog Plains?" appeared on Keweenaw Now on Earth Day, Apr. 22, 2008.

Tree sale pickup to be May 2, 3 at Lakes Event Center, Lake Linden

Preparing trees and plants for the Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District's annual tree sale May 2-3 at the Lakes Event Center, Lake Linden, are hard working volunteers, from left, Mark Klemp, Mark Weber and Paula Doran. (Photo © 2008 and courtesy Sue Haralson)

HOUGHTON -- Houghton Keweenaw Conservation District (HKCD) volunteers are hard at work preparing trees, shrubs and plants for pick-up and sale this weekend. Customers can pick up their tree sale orders from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, May 2, and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 3, at the Lakes Event Center on M-26 between Hubbell and Lake Linden.

For sale are a lot of surplus trees, shrubs, fruit trees and berry bushes. They all need a home.*

Sorry, there is no cell phone service at the Lakes Event Center, so you'll just have to stop and see the quality items available for sale.

Visit the HKCD Web site for more information about the District.

* See also our Apr. 17 article on the items for sale.