Jocelyn Benson: Thank you ...

[Editor's Note: This is an excerpt from an email received today from Jocelyn Benson, Democratic candidate for Michigan Secretary of State.]*

From Jocelyn Benson:

From the beginning, this campaign was about a different kind of leadership; leadership that puts you first, and fights for you.

We fell short of victory yesterday by just a few percentage points, with 1,437,825 Michigan voters casting their vote in support of our vision.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this campaign, and for your tireless work to help us reach voters all across the state.

The work ahead of us, and my pledge to you remain the same. As I have done throughout my career, I will continue to work to ensure that our democracy remains in the hands of our people. I will stand up to any powerful special interest that is trying to drown out your voice. I will work to make it easier to vote and harder to cheat. And I will stand up to anyone, anywhere that tries to deceive our citizens about their right to vote.

While it may be easier to work for this change with the authority of an office, we owe it to the citizens of Michigan to work wherever we are, however we can, to speak our voice, organize others, and work to enact laws to push for the changes we need.

I also want to offer my deepest thanks to the people who worked closely with me for nearly two years to fight for a better Michigan. ... Our work together will continue.

* See also the Detroit Free Press article "Republican Johnson triumphs in battle for Michigan secretary of state."

McDowell congratulates Benishek

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. -- Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) addressed supporters in Sault Ste. Marie at approximately 10 p.m. (EDT) to thank them for their support and inform them that he had called Republican Dan Benishek to congratulate him on being elected to Congress from Michigan’s 1st District. McDowell’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Thank you all for being here tonight and for your support throughout this campaign.

Before I go any further I have to thank some people who helped make this campaign possible.

First and foremost, my family. Particularly my wife, Carrie, and our three daughters, Alivia, Emily and Rochelle. Their support these past six months has made this campaign worth it.

I also want to thank my entire campaign staff; everyone who has worked these past weeks and months here in the Soo and in the field offices across this district. In a district this large no campaign could afford the staff it would take to do all of the work. So I also want to thank the hundreds of volunteers who have showed up to knock doors and make countless phones calls because they believe in this campaign and in a brighter future for northern Michigan.

This campaign has come a long ways in a short time. Like most people across northern Michigan, I was shocked that Friday in April when Congressman Stupak announced he would not seek another term. Most of us had assumed Bart would continue to represent us well for many, many years to come. The thought of running for Congress hadn’t even crossed my mind.

But thanks to the support and encouragement from my family, I entered this race to make sure northern Michigan continues moving forward.

I’ve traveled to every corner of this 31-county district, from Bay County to the Keweenaw and every point in between.

Voters are fed up with government but not for the reasons Dan Benishek and his supporters want you to think. People are fed up because elected officials have quit working together; they have quit even trying to find common ground.

This campaign has always been about bridging that divide; about listening to other people and working out solutions to our problems. Together.

Together, we have come a long ways.

It is in that sense of cooperation that I just called Dan Benishek to congratulate him on being elected northern Michigan’s next congressman. Dan Benishek and I have had our differences throughout this campaign and I have no doubt we will continue to have them. But now is not the time to dwell on those differences.

My campaign has always been about looking forward, about believing that northern Michigan’s best days are still ahead of us. And tonight is no different.

Tonight isn’t about Democrats or Republicans. It’s about northern Michigan.

We didn’t wake up six months ago believing this would be easy; we didn’t wake up today believing this would be easy. The work we all did throughout this campaign was not wasted. We not only showed countless northern Michigan voters why we have to aim for a brighter future; but we got many of them to work with us to achieve that goal.

That work doesn’t end tonight or tomorrow or next year.

We overcame a lot of obstacles to get this far in this race and I have each and every one of you to thank for that.

Thank you for believing in me, for believing in this campaign, and for believing in a better future for northern Michigan.

Voters Guide, TV6 First District Congressional debate available on line

HANCOCK -- The "Voters Guide 2010," published by the Copper Country League of Women Voters, is now available on the League's Web site. The Guide -- still available in print in some local libraries, cafés, etc. -- has a Table of Contents to help you search for Michigan candidates and their positions on issues. Decide intelligently for whom you wish to vote and write down their names in the form on p. 27 to take with you to the polls tomorrow.

Although not all candidates replied in time to have their ideas included in this non-partisan publication, a good number of them are included with their answers to the League's questions and their political party affiliation listed.

Click here to read this helpful "Voters Guide 2010" on line.

If you missed the Oct. 26 TV6 (WLUC Marquette) debate among the candidates for the 1st District Congressional seat, to succeed Congressman Bart Stupak, the entire debate is now on line. Click here to watch the hour-long debate.

See also Noël McLaren's recent TV6 interview with 1st District Congressional Candidate Gary McDowell, posted Oct. 27, 2010.

Opinion: Democrats rally to support local candidates

[Editor's Note: Houghton County Democrats and U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak, who is retiring, hosted a rally at the Democratic Party headquarters in Houghton last night, Sunday, Oct. 31, to show support for their candidates: State Rep. Gary McDowell, Congressional candidate for Stupak's 1st District seat; State Rep. Mike Lahti, candidate for the 38th District State Senate seat now held by Mike Prusi, who is term-limited; and Scott Dianda, candidate for the 110th District State Representative seat now held by Lahti. Keweenaw Now guest writer and photographer Brian Rendel offers his views on the rally and the Democrats' campaign.]

By Brian Rendel, Co-chair, Houghton County Democratic Party

HOUGHTON -- About 40 or so people showed up to the rally last evening to hear from the candidates and from Bart. Despite the rumors and the hostile advertising, I think our state and congressional candidates will win thanks to massive efforts by volunteers around the district and hard work by each of the candidates and their teams, which are coordinating their resources. The final push is getting our identified voters to show up to the polls and vote tomorrow.

Gary McDowell, 1st District Congressional candidate to replace Congressman Bart Stupak, right, addresses Democratic supporters at a rally held at the Houghton County Democratic Party headquarters in Houghton Sunday evening, Oct. 31. Click on photos for larger versions. (Photos © 2010 and courtesy Brian Rendel. Reprinted with permission.)

No candidate will please all people on all issues. Gary McDowell is the candidate who will represent this district the best. We need every single vote for him to be elected.

Dan Benishek (McDowell's Republican opponent) would not represent our district well. He wants to weaken government and favors corporate interest over the people. Benishek claims to be for the environment but says our regulations are too strict. Benishek opposes the government trying to make health care more available to people. Benishek wants Americans to trust Wall Street with our Social Security. His answer to complex problems is to simply make government the enemy and starve it with more cuts in taxes.

All our Democratic candidates support better health care for more people, regulations that protect the environment, and protecting the fundamental services such as public education and early childhood health care that can only be provided fairly and fully if government is responsible. We simply cannot afford to let our ideals distract us from moving forward on our long and sometimes frustrating path to progress.

Energized at the rally held just two days before the election, candidates are in good spirits as they talk and joke with local supporters in Houghton. Pictured here are, from left, 1st District Congressional Candidate Gary McDowell of Rudyard; State Rep. Mike Lahti of Hancock, candidate for the 38th District State Senate seat; Scott Dianda of Calumet, candidate for the 110th District State Representative seat; and Congressman Bart Stupak of Menominee, who announced his retirement last spring.

Seeing many people of all ages and from all wings of our diverse party turn out in Houghton County and surrounding counties to volunteer to knock doors, make phone calls, and help us get out the Democratic vote is very encouraging. The coordinated effort I believe is bigger than it was in 2008. It is through the enormous strength of these amazing people -- to be able to set aside the disappointments they may have with Democrats in the past two years -- that we can keep moving forward, even if it is slow at times. We cannot afford to lose a single vote because that vote may cost the election and set us back years.

Hundreds of volunteers in the 1st District have identified thousands of voters who do not vote in every election who have told us they favor our Democratic candidates. Interested readers may volunteer to help us encourage these voters to have a voting plan, know their voting place, and be sure they vote tomorrow. Call 523-1233 to volunteer.

State Rep candidates Dianda, Huuki present views, hear residents' concerns at Copper Harbor forum

By Michele Bourdieu

COPPER HARBOR -- Two candidates running for Mike Lahti's 110th District State Representative seat both hail from the Keweenaw -- Scott Dianda, Democrat, of Calumet, and Matt Huuki, Republican, of Houghton. The two spoke on issues that matter to them and listened to residents' concerns during a public forum held in mid-October in Copper Harbor.

Scott Dianda of Calumet, Democratic candidate for 110th District State Representative, addresses a group of residents in the Copper Harbor Community Building during a forum held here in mid-October. Seated at the table, at right, is Matt Huuki of Houghton, Republican candidate for this position. (Photos by Keweenaw Now)

Lahti's seat is open because he is a candidate for the State Senate, 38th District.

Both Dianda and Huuki cited jobs as a priority for the Upper Peninsula.

Dianda, who was born and raised in Calumet, where he previously ran his family's party store business, said his most recent work -- eight years as a state employee (heavy equipment operator) for the Michigan Department of Transportation -- gave him experience with many issues of state government. During the past two years, he added, as an elected representative for the Michigan State Employees Association, Dianda traveled to 83 counties and worked with all 19 departments of the state, learning a great deal about how state government works and how it needs reform in some areas as well.

Dianda pointed out that the Upper Peninsula no longer has much agriculture. The potato farms it had in the past are gone. The lumber industry needs to be expanded. Another, controversial, issue up here is the mining.

"The Kennecott mine in Marquette County is taking place," he said. "Construction is going on right now, and they are going and developing that area."

Dianda said the district needs a representative who will consider these issues of jobs, development and the economy while making sure the people are protected by regulation that can assure this area remains pristine, no matter what businesses come up here.

"That's important to me because I live here," Dianda said. "I worked in Copper Harbor, so tourism to me means a lot because it helped me go on to higher education."

Dianda noted he spent summers in Keweenaw County and worked in the Delaware mine as a tour guide and also at the Copper Harbor Lighthouse while a teenager.

"Our area is great. It's a beautiful area. We're blessed to have what we have up here," Dianda said. "I want to see us succeed, and I want to see us grow."

Dianda said he is glad to see people move here and he welcomed the new residents in the audience.

"We've got so many homes that need to be occupied, so we're glad to see people come from outside the area," he said.

Matt Huuki, a small business owner (auto glass and auto repair) in Atlantic Mine, began by telling the Copper Harbor audience he is not opposed to tourism but people need base industries in order to support it. Huuki noted Baraga and Ontonagon counties -- historically the centers for base industries -- now have some of the highest unemployment in the nation.

"That's unacceptable," he said.

Matt Huuki, standing, right, addresses Copper Harbor residents during a forum for the candidates running for the 110th District State Representative position now held by Mike Lahti, who is running for State Senator. Scott Dianda, the Democratic candidate, is seated at left. At far left is Janet Shea, Copper Harbor business owner, who organized the forum.

"I've watched the battle with Kennecott. Now I do believe these mines have to be clean," Hukki said. "They have to be watched -- (to make sure) they're not destroying our our way of life and our beautiful environment."

Huuki said he believed Kennecott would make a difference in Baraga County. His example of mines being able to operate right next to beautiful natural resources was the White Pine mine.

"My Dad worked at White Pine his whole life. He actually got killed at White Pine in '87, but he loved that job," Huuki said. "White Pine is right next to Porcupine (Mountains) State Park. That mine employed 3200 people at one point in time -- good paying jobs."

Huuki said he thought Porcupine Mountains State Park was healthier when that mine was operating, judging from his childhood memory of long lines at the ski hill. Hukki expressed his view that it's the base industries that create money that gets spent in recreation areas.

Huuki also gave examples of members of his family who attended Michigan Tech University but had to leave the area to get jobs. He estimated that was true for 90 percent of Michigan Tech grads. Huuki said he believes mining will give Michigan Tech "a purpose for being here."

Huuki also talked about his interest in ATVs.

"I want to see ATVing become as popular and as attractive as snowmobiling," Huuki said. "I want to see that become another avenue of revenue for us, especially up here in the Keweenaw."

Janet Shea, Copper Harbor business owner, who organized the forum and invited Dianda and Huuki to talk, said Copper Harbor is actually looking for a kind of industry that would meld into tourism.

Huuki said he believed 500 mining jobs could lead to a wave of jobs -- potentially 1000 or 1500 jobs -- in local businesses such as machine shops. On the other hand, he said he believed bio-mass is an industry that is not sustainable because it would put mill jobs in jeopardy and it has to be subsidized.

Joanne Thomas of Allouez questioned Huuki on his quote of 500 jobs, noting Kennecott had projected 75 local jobs. Huuki said he was talking about Orvana Minerals planning to hire 500. (Orvana's Copperwood Project is located 30 miles from the White Pine Mine, near Lake Superior.) Huuki added he believes Kennecott is starting small but those jobs will expand out.

Dianda answered Shea's question by saying he felt the tourism industry in Keweenaw County -- snowmobiling and skiing, for example -- would continue to expand.

"I don't think we're waiting for something else to come in," Dianda said. "We have things in this county that are working, and we've got to grow those things. The tourist dollars that come in here are very important."

Dianda added Michigan Tech is bringing a lot of people and research to the area, including Ford Motor Company and General Electric. These are people who are going to buy homes, put children in schools and take advantage of recreational opportunities in the area, he said.

"The more people we bring to the area, the better we all have it," Dianda said.

Dianda said he also believed more could be done in Keweenaw County in areas such as Mt. Horace Greeley, near Gratiot Lake. A longer -- 30-40-year tax break -- could encourage an industry to hire local people. As for the mining, he said we have to be sure it's done right. Another possibility is agriculture.

"Agriculture is something that we do not take advantage of," Dianda said. "It's a long-term focus and it starts with the educational system."

Dianda gave the example of blueberry bog at Rice Lake and the historic example of people who, in the past, grew potatoes and winter vegetables up here. We should do as other states are doing and promote growing local food, he said.

Shea said Keweenaw County also needs a good high-tech infrastructure -- and possibly a trade school -- to attract young people to come here or stay here to work.

Dianda agreed that high-tech infrastructure is needed to attract people to locate in the area. To Huuki's argument for "base industry," Dianda replied that, while industry is needed, it shouldn't shadow everything else. He agreed that many people up here are good at trades. Vocational education and cottage industries should be encouraged.

"The one key thing we have to remember in this election," Dianda said, "is that we can't just elect people who say they're just going to go out and start slashing state government."

Slashing the state budget threatens important services like the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (which helps small businesses), transportation and the school system. The state needs to prioritize with its budget, Dianda noted.

Elsebet Jegstrup, who recently moved to the Copper Harbor area, said she believed both government and private service industries -- insurance companies, for example -- could exist in Keweenaw County without harming the environment.

"It seems to me we have to call the service industry also a base industry because there is more service industry today," Jegstrup said.

Dianda said elected officials need to move forward to communicate the needs of the people to the state government.

Peg Kauppi, co-owner of the Mariner North in Copper Harbor, asked Dianda how he would be able to get people to listen to him in Lansing.

Dianda said his experience working with every state department in Lansing has made him known to state officials and given him the knowledge of state government needed for the representative's job.

In a discussion about stimulus money and what it was used for, Dick Powers of Copper Harbor, former Grant Township supervisor, noted some of the money was used for signs, culverts and guard rails that weren't needed, while a ditch that needed repair didn't receive funding.

"We can't keep living in the past," Powers said. "We 've got to think, What can we bring up here that's different?"

As an example, he noted Michigan Tech, formerly a School of Mines, has changed for the better with its emphasis on other programs and modern technology. Copper Harbor needs technology to attract people, Powers added.

"We haven't got a good communications system yet," Powers said.

One really successful program in Copper Harbor is the trail system -- both motorized and non-motorized -- for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter and biking in the warmer seasons.

Sam Raymond, owner of the Keweenaw Adventure Company in Copper Harbor, an outfitter and guide for silent sports such as mountain biking and kayaking, and vice-president of the non-profit Copper Harbor Trails Club, said he now employs 13 people in his business.

During the candidates forum, Sam Raymond, standing, foreground, owner of the Keweenaw Adventure Company in Copper Harbor and vice-president of the Copper Harbor Trails Club, speaks about the success of his company and especially the recent popularity of the mountain biking trails in Copper Harbor.

"I've been doing this now for 12 years," Raymond said. "I'm really pleased to say that, despite this recession and downturn in the economy, the last three years have been my best three years in business."

Raymond said a big part of his business growth has been the trails.

"We've been getting national recognition for our mountain bike trail system. We're part of the International Mountain Biking Association and they've designated Copper Harbor as what they call an 'epic ride' -- which is based on the quality of the trails, the terrain, the location, the scenery," Raymond explained. "We're one of 48 epic rides in the world, so they consider us to be some of the best."

Especially this summer, he added, people from all over the country have been seeking out Copper Harbor as a mountain biking destination.

Joanne Thomas of Allouez said Raymond's success is a testament to the growing potential in non-intrusive industries that this region is uniquely suited to expand.

"This is why it is crucial that all protections of our natural resources and habitat are continued and strengthened," Thomas said. "The attractions that draw most folks to this area to vacation and set up summer residences are the natural beauty and the still spectacular environment for silent sports -- not the devastation that can easily result from invasive mining and other polluting industries."

Thomas also mentioned the growth of the arts in the Keweenaw, with an increased number of art galleries and cultural activities.

Dianda said he was also impressed by this growth in his home town of Calumet, noting the example of the Vertin Building with its large gallery and art studios.

Shea pointed out to the candidates that one problem for tourism, which includes the trails, is that Keweenaw County has very little public access since so much of the land is privately owned and securing easements on that land depends on negotiating with landowners and obtaining funding to purchase easements.

Don Kauppi, co-owner of the Mariner North, who is active in working to obtain private property easements for trails, said a Recreation Committee including both Keweenaw and Houghton counties is hoping to establish and define a position for a qualified person to negotiate with landowners for both motorized and non-motorized trails. Some trails start as far south as Toivola.

"A government body can't do that," Kauppi said.

It has to be an individual with qualifications to evaluate land, negotiate with landowners and access a fund to pay for the easements, he explained.

"We've got to define our product (the terrain) -- whether it's motorized or non-motorized, so everybody knows where they're allowed to be -- define, sign and patrol," Kauppi said.

The cooperation of the sheriffs' departments and the DNRE (Department of Natural Resources and Environment) is necessary to protect the property owners through enforcement.

The problem with the trails on the state-owned Keweenaw Tip property (both motorized and non-motorized) is there is no legal access to connect to the trails up there because of private property. Ideally they would like to have a mountain bike trail from Eagle Harbor to Keweenaw Point, Kauppi said.

"We understand from Fort Wilkins that the State Parks Department is going to apply for some funding (to connect to those trails)," Kauppi added, "so we're hoping that if one of these guys gets in office they can help with that application."

Kauppi said he knows both candidates personally and considers them both good people.

One local resident asked the candidates if they would fight for Lake Superior -- which he said is "the best thing we have going up here."

Dianda said he considered Asian Carp one of the biggest Great Lakes issues.

"Those things have to be stopped in Chicago," he said. "It should be a non-issue."

Citing the recent oils spills in the Gulf and near Kalamazoo, Dianda also noted his opposition to drilling for oil in the Great Lakes.

Dianda said he believes the Pure Michigan ads should focus on the 110th District of the Upper Peninsula -- pictures of people on the bike trails, people fishing -- as they have done for recreational areas near Traverse City, for example. And these ads need to be funded.

"You've got four representatives in the UP. There's 106 of them south of the Mackinac Bridge," Dianda noted.

Dianda emphasized the importance of having representatives in Lansing who will see that the state budget cuts do not cut the valuable funding needed in the U.P.

"We are going to be the ones that will feel the effect if they start downsizing any type of state government," he said.

After the forum, both candidates stayed to chat with individual residents.

"I think a benefit to this meeting was in exposing the candidates to the interests and concerns of Keweenaw residents," Joanne Thomas noted. "The 'debate' was comfortable, friendly and informative."

Click here to visit Scott Dianda's Web site.

Click here to visit Matt Huuki's Web site.

Rozsa Gallery to host exhibit, lecture by Susanne Kilpela

HOUGHTON -- The "Creating Out Loud" exhibit, by Susanne Kilpela, will be displayed from Nov. 1 through Jan. 3 in the Rozsa Art Gallery.

The exhibit will display a metamorphosis of two-dimensional to three-dimensional art; it will end with objects of clay made right in the gallery itself. It will question and celebrate the process of the creative mind. The opening reception is at 7 p.m., Monday, Nov. 1.

Kilpela will also give a lecture, "The Process: A Discussion About Creativity," at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 2, in the gallery.

She will discuss creativity in the modern world and many of the themes that affect us all, including popular myths and beliefs about creativity and the importance of the creative process outside of the arts. Kilpela has taught classes for six years at Michigan Tech in 2-D art, 3-D art, art history and ceramics.

The exhibit, reception and lecture are free and open to the public.

Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race caps off local cycling season

By Christopher Schmidt*

Tim Kostner of the Red Jacket Cycling Team negotiates an obstacle in the Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race held in Copper Harbor Oct. 23-24. Kostner won a third-place bronze medal in the men's A class. (Photo © 2010 and courtesy Christopher Schmidt)

COPPER HARBOR -- Capping off the end of another great cycling season, Copper Harbor was the site of the third annual Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race presented by Houghton’s Red Jacket Cycling Team. More than sixty racers from Duluth to Skandia participated in the two-day event, Oct. 23-24, which again featured venues in downtown Copper Harbor and the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge. Contested over short courses approximately one mile in length for a fixed period of time, typically 30 to 45 minutes depending on gender and ability, the races are fast, furious and exciting down to the wire.

Chris Uchytil lifts his bike over a challenging barrier during the recent Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race in Copper Harbor.

Not only were racers competing for top honors in the Keweenaw, but, as the Cup is part of the seven-race UPCROSS points series, racers were also looking to collect points for the season-long series which starts in late September and concludes with the U.P. State Cyclocross Championships in November.

The Keweenaw Cup opened last Saturday, Oct. 23, with the Downtown Hoedown in the center of Copper Harbor, where nearly 50 racers competed. Sending racers on a flat, meandering, and obstacle-laden course featuring chicanes, barriers, singletrack, sand trap, and an off-camber turn with potential water hazard, the Cup got off to a blazing start under sunny skies.

Race action moved up the hill Sunday morning to the historic Keweenaw Mountain Lodge for the Top of the World Smackdown. In a move designed to give racers on traditional cyclocross bikes an edge over those on mountain bikes, race organizers opted to make the day’s race as fast as possible by including several hundred meters of paved cart path and dirt road. All things being equal, racers with the more narrow tires typically used on cx bikes should, in theory at least, have proven faster on the course. All things are not, of course, equal in a 'cross race, least of all fate. Flat tires, broken chains and flailing elbows are an omnipresent danger that can turn a race on its head in the blink of an eye.

In the final overall standings, top honors in the women’s B category went to Tammi Lehto of Houghton, followed by Mary Connor of Marquette and E. Voschkl, also of Marquette.

In the highly contested women’s A category, Nicole Alexander of Marquette was crowned Keweenaw Cup champion. Christina Bennett of Marquette placed second and Kari Gates of Duluth finished third.

Taking home the Cup in the men’s C class was Bruce Harvey of Houghton. Second was awarded to Bruce Pletka of Houghton and third went to Finn Whalen of Marquette.

Ryan Tervo (background) is close behind Mik Kilpela as they both cross a difficult double barrier during the third annual Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race.

Claiming his first Keweenaw Cup in the men’s B class was Red Jacket Cycling Team rider Kit Cischke of Houghton, followed by Jeremy Pletka and Ian Marks of Marquette and Houghton, respectively.

And, overall champion in the men’s A class was Culvers Cycling Team rider Tyler Gauthier, who won each of the two individual races. Aaron Swanson, current leader in the UPCROSS standings took home second. Tim Kostner (Red Jacket Cycling Team) took home the bronze.

The Red Jacket Cycling Team would like to thank racers and spectators for traveling the extra distance to Copper Harbor. We’d also like to thank the Copper Harbor Trails Club for their support, Michigan Tech, Computer Mechanix, John Ollila and his dog Toivo, The Bike Shop, BlueSky Health, Banjo Brothers Bags, the village of Copper Harbor, The Mariner North and, last but not least, The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge for making the 2010 Keweenaw Cup possible.

More details and photos of the race are available at upcross.net. For results of the races Click here.

*Editor's Note: Guest author and photographer Christopher Schmidt is one of the organizers for the Keweenaw Cup cyclocross race.

Just in time for Halloween: Michigan Tech Students solve Paulding Light mystery

By Marcia Goodrich

HOUGHTON -- Cue the bats and spooky music. We are about to delve into one of Michigan’s most alluring mysteries. It’s so alluring, in fact, that it draws a steady stream of pilgrims of the paranormal to the dot-in-the-road town of Paulding all summer long, and into the winter too, just to hang out on the edge of the woods to watch and wait.

They come to catch a glimpse of the Paulding Light, and they are rarely disappointed. The light (or lights; sometimes they come in groups) appears in a valley near Robbins Pond Road. It was even featured this year on the SyFy television show "Fact or Faked: Paranormal Files."

The lights are definitely not faked, says Jeremy Bos, a PhD candidate student in electrical engineering at Michigan Technological University. But neither are they ghostly lanterns of a railroad brakeman killed trying to stop an oncoming train, as one of the many legends goes.

Bos organized the investigation of the Paulding Light mystery, working with students in the University’s student chapter of SPIE, a professional society devoted to the study of optics and photonics. Last May, the group was looking for a project that would be both fun and educational. "I thought, 'What about the Paulding Light?'" Bos said.

Read more on the Michigan Tech News ...

Walk to call attention to proposed County Road 595 to be Oct. 30,31

MARQUETTE -- A walk to bring attention to the Marquette Road Commission's decision to create County Road 595 will be held Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 30 and 31.

On Saturday, the 11-mile walk will begin at 10 a.m. sharp from the Marquette County Road Commission Headquarters in Ishpeming (near Ralph's Italian Deli on the corner of 2nd St. and Hwy 41) to Koski's Korner (Rte 95 and Hwy 41, at the BP gas station. There is a public parking area on the NW corner along Rte 95).

On Sunday, a 12-mile walk will leave at 10 a.m. sharp from Koski's Korner to Michigamme -- from the public parking area (NW corner of Rte 95 at Hwy 41) to the village of Michigamme.

Join for as much or as little as you can. Participants will walk on the shoulder of Hwy 41.

Blessings at Middle Branch Escanaba River and Peshekee River.

RULES:
a. Sorry, no children allowed; it is too dangerous for them.
b. You are responsible for your own transportation -- shuttling or carpooling.
c. You MUST wear a blaze-orange or yellow vest. NO EXCEPTIONS.
d. No facemasks allowed. You are welcome to wear a Halloween costume, if you so desire; but please be careful that you do not endanger yourself by doing such.
e. You are welcome to carry a sign; however, no foul language.
f. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing and bring raingear.
g. Single file when approaching Champion and Michigamme -- the curves are dangerous.
h. Bring lots of water and pack a lunch.

Justice Center Committee to hold last public information meeting Oct. 28

HOUGHTON -- The Justice Center Committee will host their last public information session at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 28, at the Portage Lake District Library in Houghton. Concerned citizens are encouraged to attend and ask questions.

President Bill Clinton boosts Bernero heading into home stretch

At an Oct. 24 Rally in Detroit, President Bill Clinton stands with Virg Bernero, gubernatorial candidate and mayor of Lansing. Clinton touted Bernero's record of balanced budgets and job creation to the crowd. (Photo courtesy votevirg.com. Reprinted with permission.)

From votevirg.com:

DETROIT -- President Bill Clinton stood with gubernatorial candidate and Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero to urge Michigan voters to elect a governor with a proven record and a real plan to turn Michigan’s economy around.

Standing before a crowd at Detroit’s Renaissance High School on Sunday, Oct. 24, President Clinton encouraged Democrats, independents and Republicans who care about Michigan’s future to bring their friends and family members out to vote for Bernero. Clinton cited Virg’s record of balancing the budget every year without a tax increase, putting Lansing in the top ten cities in the country in job growth and his unwavering fight for everyday people as reasons he strongly supports Mayor Bernero.

President Clinton warned that special interests and out-of-state Republican groups are pouring millions into the Michigan governor’s race because on most issues Bernero's Republican opponent, Rick Snyder, is in lock-step with his party, intent on restoring an extreme ideology that put Michigan in the situation it's in today.

President Clinton is in demand from candidates across the country but chose to campaign for Bernero because of his strong advocacy for regular people and because he believes Mayor Bernero is closing the gap in the polls just as he did in the primary and will secure an exciting come-from-behind-win as he did before. President Clinton’s support provides Bernero with a tremendous burst of momentum heading into the campaign’s homestretch.

See also the Detroit Free Press article on this Oct. 24 Rally.

E.L. Wright Building to celebrate 100th anniversary with Open House Oct. 30

HANCOCK -- The E.L. Wright Building in Hancock will celebrate its 100th anniversary with an Open House from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 30. The E.L. Wright Building, a former elementary school, is at 801 N. Lincoln Drive (U.S. 41) in Hancock.

Artist Joyce Koskenmaki, fashion designer and artist Andrea Puzakulich of Distant Drum Designs and photographer Adam Johnson of Brockit Inc. invite the public to their studios in the building.

Refreshments everywhere!

See Keweenaw Now guest writer Kate Flynn's Aug. 8, 2010, article on these three artists and their studios in the E.L. Wright Building.

Learn more about the artists by visiting their Web sites: joycekoskenmaki.com, distantdrum.com and brockit.com.

Shaft and Junior Shaft Exhibit deadline for entries is Oct. 30

HANCOCK -- The Copper Country Community Arts Center's 17th annual "Shaft" and "Junior Shaft" community exhibits on mining will take place November 3-30 in the Community Arts Center's Kerredge Gallery and the Youth Art Gallery.

Artists are invited to submit work inspired by mining in the Copper Country, the physical signs of its presence or the effect it has had on the area and its people. This is a non-juried community exhibit. The deadline for entry is 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30. Entry forms are available at the Copper Country Community Arts Center.

The reception for the Shaft and Junior Shaft is at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 10, at the CCCAC annual meeting open house. Cash prizes will be awarded by public choice and will be announced the first week in December. Voting will take place throughout the month of the November.

The Copper Country Community Arts Center is located at 126 Quincy Street in Hancock. Call 482-2333 for more information and entry fee details.

Bernero holds "Save Our Bridge" Rally at Mackinac Bridge to oppose Snyder plan to sell it

Gubernatorial Candidate Virg Bernero. (Photo courtesy Votevirg.com. Reprinted with permission.)

ST. IGNACE, Mich. -- Gubernatorial candidate Virg Bernero and a throng of supporters stood at the Upper Peninsula foot of the Mackinac Bridge today, Oct. 26, to hold a "Save the Bridge" rally and oppose plans to sell off the Bridge to a private corporation.

Bernero’s opponent, Rick Snyder, said recently that he would consider selling off the Mackinac Bridge as a way to make short-term money for the State.

"I strongly disagree with Mr. Snyder on this. I will not consider selling off the Mackinac Bridge for one second," said Bernero. "The Mackinac Bridge is one of our state’s most cherished symbols. This would be like selling out a piece of who we are as Michiganders."

The Mackinac Bridge is one of Michigan’s most well-known icons -- so recognizable and filled with meaning for Michigan residents that Rick Snyder uses an image of the Bridge in his latest TV attack ad on Bernero. It’s ironic Snyder now says he may sell off the Bridge.

Privatizing the Mackinac Bridge would likely mean substantially higher tolls for bridge travelers. As it stands now, tolls are only enough to cover Bridge operations, but a private company would seek to profit off bridge travelers and would need to raise tolls substantially and/or or cut jobs or maintenance to do that.

And the company who bought the Bridge could also own naming rights, meaning they could sell the name as is done with football stadiums and college football bowl games.

"If Mr. Snyder sells the Bridge to an out of state or foreign company, it would mean higher tolls, lost jobs and Michigan dollars leaving our economy," Bernero said. "If Rick Snyder becomes governor the Bridge could even be renamed something like the 'Tostitos.com' Bridge, or the 'McDonald’s Big Mac.' It’s funny to think about, but unfortunately Mr. Snyder is dead serious. It makes you wonder what other state treasures he might sell off."

State governments across the country have begun selling major highways and other infrastructure to corporations as a quick-fix way to plug holes in the state budget, rather than making government more efficient. By the beginning of 2009, 15 major roads had been privatized in 10 states with more under discussion.

For example, Republican Governor and former George W. Bush Administration official Mitch Daniels -- whom Rick Snyder has said he hopes to emulate -- successfully pushed to have Indiana’s toll roads auctioned off in 2006. Since then, tolls have doubled, increasing for the first time since 1985, jobs have been cut, and Indiana taxpayers will ultimately lose an estimated $7.2 billion as a result of the deal.

"We need to stop looking for quick fixes to our budget problems," said Bernero. "It's time to cut government and make it more efficient. That’s what I’ve done to balance the budget without raising taxes every single year I’ve been mayor."

Not surprisingly, Wall Street players are cashing in on the new wave of privatization of public assets. In fact, Goldman Sachs is serving as an adviser to states on how to structure privatization deals, while simultaneously positioning itself to invest in the new toll road market.

Bernero closed today’s event telling the crowd there is one simple thing each Michigander can do to save the Mackinac Bridge.

"If you want to save the Mackinac Bridge, you just have to vote for Virg Bernero for governor on November 2nd," he said.

Stupak: Snyder's comments on privatizing Mackinac Bridge "totally unacceptable"

WASHINGTON, D. C. -- U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) released the following statement concerning the remarks made by Republican candidate for governor, Rick Snyder, regarding the privatization of Michigan public assets, such as the Mackinac Bridge:

"The recent declaration by Rick Snyder that 'everything is on the table' when it comes to privatizing vital Michigan public assets, such as the sale of the Mackinac Bridge located in the 1st congressional district, is totally unacceptable."

"The Mackinac Bridge is a true symbol of Michigan, recognized throughout the world. It belongs to the people of Michigan. To attempt to sell the bridge to a private company would only lead to increased tolls on residents and tourists.

"Given Mr. Snyder's recent comments regarding the privatization of essential public services, who knows what other important Michigan resources Mr. Snyder would be willing to sell-off, perhaps our Great Lakes water?

"I have spent my entire career in public service protecting our Great Lakes and ensuring that this natural resource is owned, maintained, and protected by the people. The citizens of Michigan rely on the lakes for their livelihoods, recreation,
tourism, and drinking water. Great Lakes water is not for sale! I am concerned that Mr. Snyder would be open to the idea of auctioning off this precious resource to the highest bidder and taking away yet another vital resource that belongs to the people of Michigan."

Opponents of proposed "public" mine haul road call for more public input

At their Oct. 18 meeting in Ishpeming, members of the Marquette County Road Commission hear public comments on a proposed new county road, now referred to as County Road 595. (Photos © 2010 and courtesy Teresa Bertossi)

By Michele Bourdieu

ISHPEMING -- After nearly two hours of public comments -- most of them in opposition to a proposed new Marquette County road to run from US 41 and County Road FY northerly to County Road IAA, the Marquette County Road Commission voted on Oct. 18, 2010, to move forward with this road, which they named County Road 595.

Opponents of the road called for a public forum to be held in Marquette and to include Kennecott Eagle Minerals Company (KEMC), the presumed funding source for this public road, which was proposed after the Woodland Road, a private haul road for KEMC, failed to receive permits from federal and state regulating agencies last spring.

James Iwanicki, Road Commission engineer-manager, read his official recommendation for the road, which acknowledged some of the obstacles and impacts that had prevented Rio Tinto - Kennecott from obtaining permits for their proposed Woodland Road and which also included statements that drew objections from the public.

During the public comment period of the Marquette County Road Commission's Oct. 18 meeting, James Iwanicki, right, Marquette County Road Commission engineer-manager, and Darryll Sundberg, Marquette County Road Commission chair, hear public comments on a proposed new road.

"This project involves some legitimate environmental concerns," Iwanicki said. "The project will decrease potential truck traffic in the city of Marquette, County Road 550 and the US 41 corridor. The public highway safety as well as the public emergency services will benefit from this project. There are short-term and long-term financial considerations involved in the design, construction and maintenance of this project. It must be noted that, if the board decides to move forward with this project, this is just the start of a decision-making process."

The Road Commission also approved a motion to have their staff contract with legal counsel to develop written partnerships needed to design, build and maintain County Road 595. Staff time is currently budgeted in the 2011 budget, they said.

While comments in favor of this road seemed to dominate the Oct. 7 public hearing, only a few persons spoke in favor of it during the Oct. 18 Road Commission meeting. The majority of those making public comments at this meeting seemed to hold the opinion that this "public" road is primarily a haul road for Rio Tinto - Kennecott, since the route it is to take, while still vague, appears to connect the Eagle Mine site at its north end with the Humboldt mill where it meets US 41 at its south end.

Two statements in Iwanicki's recommendation define the road's main purpose: "Whereas, the purpose of the new all-season county primary road is to provide enhanced year-round vehicle access to the adjoining lands in the north central portion of Marquette County,

"Whereas, this new road will provide additional recreational opportunities to the public as well as provide a direct benefit to the timber, mining, and gravel industries."

Residents challenged the Road Commissioners for proposing a public road in the same general area as the Woodland Road, yet not providing a map to show details of the route; for possibly illegally accepting Kennecott's private financing of this road; for potentially jeopardizing water and forest resources in an ecologically sensitive area of the county; for proposing to build a costly road for a company that would only be here a short time when the county has insufficient funds to maintain its other roads; for presenting the road as a benefit for recreation when its main use would be industrial.

Cynthia Pryor questioned why the Road Commission would want to take on the responsibility of this road when Kennecott had such difficulties with the permitting process for the Woodland Road. She also noted the process for obtaining public comment was unfair to citizens because only one public hearing was held and it was held in Ishpeming Township.

Cynthia Pryor addresses the Marquette County Road Commission during their Oct. 18 meeting. She called for a public forum to include Kennecott and to be held in Marquette.

"This is a Marquette County decision," Pryor said. "This decision should be (made) at the Marquette County seat."

Pryor said the Road Commission should have further discussion with a wider audience. She mentioned a TV-6 poll of 50-50 for and against this road.

"You do not have the public's will on this road, and I would advise you to have another meeting," Pryor said. "You need more input."

Citing a booklet of the County Road Association, Pryor noted they list many ways to fund new road projects, not including private funding.

"County Boards have the authority -- with voter approval -- to raise revenues dedicated to road funding," she noted. "There ought to be a voter process -- and not just one corporation -- a multi-national corporation -- taking control of this process."

Pryor observed also that the public has no idea of the route of this new road -- where it is or what its implications are -- and that if the Road Commission intended to condemn any private property for this road it would be a violation of the U.S. Constitution to condemn land for private gain. She also noted safety issues had not yet been discussed. Large trucks on steep grades with heavy loads could present safety issues should tourists attempt to use this road.

"This is a Kennecott haul road," Pryor said.

Margaret Comfort told the Road Commissioners she wanted to see documentation on how this public road for a multi-national corporation came about -- documentation on how it became, over time, a "necessity." She said she agreed with Pryor that the citizens of the whole county should have input, because it would not just be about one road.

"Have you ever seen a situation where there's just one road?" she asked. "No. One road leads to two roads, leads to three roads, on and on. And before you know it, you have a patchwork."

Comfort suggested the Commission consider that perhaps a railroad would be preferable to a road.

Amy Conover of Marquette asked that the County Board put stringent regulations on vehicles that would transport ore from the mine site to any processing plant.

"The only safe means of transport would realistically be in an air-tight and impenetrable container that would remain intact in the event of a vehicle roll-over," Conover said. "This is to protect the environment and lives of our citizens and children and unborn children -- pregnant women and young children being the most susceptible to the type of toxins that would be released into the environment from open, exposed ores putting dust into the air."

Conover noted also that the Great Lakes contain 18-20 percent of the world's fresh water supply. Adding toxins here to Lake Superior, which feeds into the other Great Lakes, will impact the water supply of a world that is already losing fresh water because of melting glaciers and pollution -- a world that has already lost half of its wetlands, just in the 20th century.

This mining project, she observed, is driven by greed and monetary value, not the human rights to clean air and water. She presented the commissioners with a report on the cost to Michigan of diseases caused by environmental exposure.

Tom Polkinghorn of Champion said he wished to respond to some of the comments made by proponents of the road at the Oct. 7 public hearing.* He referred to comments on needing a job, wanting one's children to have a job and stay here, loving the area, a logger saying this is not wilderness, etc. Polkinghorn, who is now retired, said he grew up here but had to leave the area to find employment.

Addressing the arguments for jobs previously expressed by road proponents, Tom Polkinghorn of Champion states, during the Oct. 18 Road Commission meeting, his opposition to a road that would destroy areas of solitude and to a mine that offers only unsustainable jobs and opposes unions.

Polkinghorn said he opposes this road because in leaving this area he came to appreciate what he missed about this place. Once this road is built, people will no longer be able to enjoy areas of solitude, to fish on the rivers that now have no road crossings, to canoe or kayak on lakes in the area without seeing or hearing truck traffic or even to ride their four-wheelers and snowmobiles from Champion to Big Bay without crossing a paved road.

"Mining is simply not a sustainable economy," he said. "The area is now littered with dying communities that were all tied to mining."

Polkinghorn also asked the commissioners to note that "this company has a profound anti-union stance and is a leader in robotic mining."

Joe Derocha, Humboldt Township supervisor, again spoke of his township board's support of the road. He noted the Humboldt mill, a 40-acre Brownfield project, would be doing milling operations for the Kennecott mine -- offering great economic potential for Humboldt Township.

"That's why I'm here tonight -- to create jobs in our township," he said. "It isn't very often that we get an opportunity to have private dollars build a public road."

Susan Fawcett of Marquette said the reason she moved up here was because you can walk through so many beautiful places without seeing a road. She said what makes this place so special for her is its inaccessibility. She can hike for miles through places that are beautiful because you can't drive a truck through them.

Susan Fawcett of Marquette gives reasons why she loves hiking in the area where the proposed road may be built. Seated in foreground at left, taking notes, is Matt Johnson, Rio Tinto - Kennecott's Government and Community Relations manager.

"This road that you propose will cut right through the middle of what I think is one of the most beautiful places on earth," she said. "Because it's going through the highlands, it's crossing at the headwaters of all of these rivers that are flowing out there. It's compromising them from their very source."

Fawcett said the mine companies would be here only a short time, would leave people without jobs -- and the damage they do is going to be irreversible.

Marquette County Commissioner Deborah Pellow repeated the County Board's support of the road. She said having a private company pay for a public road would not be unusual. It would be no different from a developer paying for a road in a subdivision.

Gerald Corkin, Marquette County Commission chair, said he was also representing Negaunee Township in support of the road. He said people had complained about trucks coming down 550 and now that the company offers this alternative people are complaining about other problems. This road would be a lot safer, he said.

"Common sense tells you it makes sense, and I hope you can find an acceptable environmental solution to it," Corkin added. "I encourage you to move forward."

William Malmsten, Upper Peninsula Environmental Coalition (UPEC) president, said Rio Tinto and the Marquette County Board are asking the Road Commission to do something that is fundamentally dishonest -- to build a road under the false pretense that it is a public road when it is really almost the same as Rio Tinto's private (Woodland) Road, a road through a water-rich environment -- that was objected to by both federal and state regulators. Malmsten said details of Rio Tinto's financial commitment of 50 to 80 million dollars for construction of this new road -- such as support of Road Commission staff time, snow removal, length of time for the support, etc. -- are not clear. The Road Commission already has insufficient funds to maintain existing roads in Marquette County, and the public has a right to the answers to these questions, he noted.

William Malmsten, president of the Upper Peninsula Environmental Coalition (UPEC), addresses Marquette Road Commissioners on the lack of clarity in Rio Tinto - Kennecott's funding of this public road.

"It would seem premature to approve a project when you haven't lined up how the funding is going to be managed," Malmsten said.

Daryl Wilcox, Powell Township supervisor, said he did not vote for his township's resolution to support this road because he did not want to support a dead-end road that would end only seven miles from CR 550. The people of Big Bay, who live only 10 miles from the mine, would not have a connection to this road as long as the AAA and 510 are seasonal roads.

"What's going to happen when Kennecott leaves?" Wilcox asked. "It's hard for the people who live up there to have something so close to you and not know if you're going to benefit from it."

Kristi Mills of Big Bay, Save the Wild UP director, presented the Road Commission with a petition asking them to table this decision and relocate Road Commission meetings on this project to the City of Marquette where they can be accessed by the majority of the population. The petition had 238 signatures of which about 147 were online. Mills said the public needs an open door for discussion, research and maps showing where the road will be -- not just an outline of a 4-mile corridor "somewhere out there." People need more time and a plan to comment on, she said.

"We've already heard from EPA and other agencies that have weighed in on this issue and said that area is too sensitive for this type of project," Mills noted. "I'm not sure (if Kennecott couldn't receive permits for the Woodland Road) why the county thinks that they can get the same type of permitting."

Timothy Jones of Ishpeming presented himself and his young son as people who would be directly impacted by the proposed road, since his family spends time hunting, fishing and biking between Gander Lake and Wildcat Canyon.

Timothy Jones of Ishpeming, pictured here at the Oct. 18 Road Commission meeting with his son, said his family would lose recreational opportunities if this road goes through.

"It breaks my heart really to think that entire area of the county that we've enjoyed so much since we moved over here could be so tragically changed," Jones said. "Tourism and recreation are really the long-term solution for our economic problems."

Jon Saari, UPEC board member, said he realized the Road Commission is in a tough spot, but this road is being rushed through -- without due consideration of whether there are more jobs to be had from improving existing roads.

"I live up there," Saari said. "In 10 years this is going to be a road to nowhere. Why? because it's a 5-6-foot snow pack up there."

Saari noted this area would never become a settlement area and after Kennecott leaves the Road Commission wouldn't be able to maintain this road. The proposed new road would have the same problem as the Woodland Road as far as obtaining permits from regulating agencies, he added.

"Let's take the 50-80 million from Kennecott and do something useful with it for our existing road structure," he said. "The same headwaters country and that upper 10 miles are going to be rejected by the federal agencies and are what make most environmentalists rabid and disbelieving that so many people in this county apparently are willing to sacrifice that area," Saari said.

He suggested two alternatives for improving existing roads instead of building this road: improving the Peshekee grade or connecting the 510 and AAA with the lower 10 miles of the Woodland Road.

Gabriel Caplett of Skandia said he'd like to see some real information to back up the position that this road will benefit the people -- traffic studies, safety studies, reasons for continued surveys along other routes.

Gabriel Caplett, standing, of Skandia asks the Road Commissioners for documents on how this road will benefit people.

Catherine Parker of Marquette gave several reasons, supported by her research, why the public does not need this road and why they can't afford it. She also questioned the legality of Kennecott's financial commitment to this public road.

"Has Kennecott, or any other private entity, made financial commitments in advance of a new permitting process? If so, they, and other participating parties, are once again in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act," she said.** (See below for a link to our article presenting Parker's complete statement.)

Teresa Bertossi of Marquette noted comments at the Oct. 7 public hearing in favor of this road were almost entirely about the need for jobs. She spoke about her own family's mining heritage, her miner grandfather's black lung, her family's loss of land to a mining company and struggles to find employment. She gave reasons why mining does not offer sustainable jobs and why it's becoming even less sustainable as it becomes more automated.

"You're completely basing your decision on the support of this for mining jobs, because that's the only support you've received," Bertossi said. "Basically you've chosen to do the bidding of a corporation -- a very bad corporation with a very poor global record."

Tiris Valinlore of Marquette gave the example of Niagara Falls -- the U.S. side with chemical factories next to the Falls vs. the more economically successful and aesthetic Canadian side, developed entirely for tourism -- to demonstrate what happens when you put industry right next to a tourist site.

Tiris Valinlore of Marquette offers the example of Niagara Falls -- the Canadian side vs. the American side -- as an example of how industry and tourism should not be developed side by side. Seated, third from left in yellow jacket, is Marquette County Commissioner Deborah Pellow, who repeated the County Board's support of the road.

"We need to think about other kinds of development because tourism and industrial complexes -- whether chemical factories or mining -- don't go hand in hand," he said.

Kathryn O'Donnell of Marquette said she believed this project threatens the water resources of Marquette County and taking corporate dollars threatens the democracy of Marquette County.

Cynthia Pryor repeated her request to the Road Commissioners to delay their decision. She said she respects them and their work, but she doesn't like to see them doing Kennecott's work.

"I want to see Kennecott come out from behind your skirts," she said. "Where is Kennecott in this process? This needs to be part of a public forum that Kennecott -- if they are going to be funding this -- participates in."

Matt Johnson, Rio Tinto-Kennecott's Government and Community Relations manager, did not speak publicly at the meeting, but did speak with Keweenaw Now afterwards.

"Even though we didn't speak tonight, we're always available for any questions people have," Johnson said.

To a question on whether the ore could be hauled by rail (as had been indicated in the original permit application for the mine), he replied that the idea of the Woodland Road came up when the Humboldt mill became available during the permitting process. It was an opportunity to mill the ore locally and create jobs, Johnson explained.

"Even if a rail was built, a road -- whether it's an existing road or a new road -- would still need to be built," he added. "Kennecott remains interested in investigating transportation routes that meet the needs of our business and the community."

Right now Kennecott has a permit for the route down County Road 550, but at the time an alternate route becomes feasible they will re-define transportation routes in their mine permit, he explained.

"It's not a done deal," Johnson said.

Gail Griffith of Marquette noted after the meeting that the comments heard at this meeting were overwhelmingly opposed to the proposed new road.

"I would like to see them have some public forums, including Kennecott, and hold them in Marquette," she said.

Editor's Notes:
* See our Oct. 15 article on the Oct. 7 public hearing on this proposed new road.
** See our Oct. 21 posting of Catherine Parker's complete comments presented at this Oct. 18 Road Commission meeting: "Is new road for Kennecott truly 'public'?"

Lahti proposes banning Great Lakes drilling, holding oil companies accountable for damage

HANCOCK -- State Senate candidate Mike Lahti today announced his proposal to protect Michigan’s land and water by permanently banning oil drilling in the Great Lakes and holding oil companies accountable to pay for cleanup and damages -- instead of Michigan taxpayers -- when their mistakes harm Michigan’s vital natural resources and the Upper Peninsula way of life. Lahti is running for state Senate in the 38th District, which covers 13 of 15 counties in the U.P.

"The U.P. is unique in that our jobs and our recreation are so dependent on clean lakes, rivers and streams, and pristine forests that an oil spill that pollutes our waters or harms our land would endanger every facet of our lives here," said Mike Lahti. "My plan to ban drilling in the Great Lakes and hold oil companies accountable will help us protect our land and waters for the jobs we have now and for our children so they can stay here in the U.P. to live, work and raise their families."

Lahti’s plan to protect our land and water would:

* Guarantee that oil companies -- not taxpayers -- are required to pay for cleanup and damages when their negligence is responsible for oil spills;
* Permanently ban oil and gas drilling in the Great Lakes;
* Allow Michigan citizens to hold oil companies accountable when their actions result in damage;
* Require oil companies to immediately notify the state and area residents, businesses and all other affected property owners of an oil spill.

"My business relies directly on our freshwater, and if an oil company comes up here and pollutes and ruins our water and our land, that will hurt my ability to make a living and support my employees," said Pat Peterson, owner of Peterson’s Fish Market in Hancock. "Mike Lahti’s plan to protect the U.P. means that I can keep working along with all of the other small businesses that rely on visitors, as well as the timber and mining industries that provide good jobs for families and neighbors. Mike has the experience we need in the state Senate to make sure that our natural resources and our way of life here in the U.P. are protected."

In July 2010, an estimated 1 million gallons of oil gushed into the Kalamazoo River, resulting in the Midwest’s largest oil spill ever. The federal government has repeatedly warned Enbridge, the company that owns the pipeline, about the quality of its pipelines. Enbridge pipelines have sprung at least a dozen leaks since 2003, and the company has been cited for other safety and environmental violations in Michigan. However, Enbridge is taking two and a half years to "consider" making necessary repairs or replacing the pipe that spewed oil into the Kalamazoo River and threatened to reach Lake Michigan. Enbridge also owns the Lakehead Pipeline System, which includes a line that runs on the bottom of Lake Michigan at the Straits of Mackinac and across the U.P.

"Mike Lahti understands that protecting our natural resources means that not only will we be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the U.P., but so will our children and their children for generations to come," said Paul Leach, former editor and publisher of Michigan Out-of-Doors Magazine. "His plan would protect us from oil spills that would threaten our campgrounds, our fishing, our hunting and all of the small businesses that rely on our outdoor recreation for their livelihoods. We need this kind of protection and Mike Lahti is the only candidate who can deliver it for us."

As the Chair of the House Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee, Lahti has fought hard to protect Michigan’s unique natural resources. In the recently completed state budget Lahti successfully won the re-opening of U.P. campgrounds that had been closed due to budget cuts back in 2009. He has also voted to protect our waters from companies that would come in to bottle and sell Great Lakes water to other states, and has fought to keep invasive species like the Asian carp out of Michigan waters.

Mike Lahti is a small business owner and job creator in the U.P. As an insurance agent and developer, he has worked in his community on projects that have built and restored buildings, revitalized downtown and created new businesses. Lahti is a lifelong resident of Hancock and currently serves in the Michigan House of Representatives.

For more information on Lahti’s efforts to protect our land and water, visit www.LahtiForSenate.com.

Updated: TV6 to air 1st District Congressional Candidates debate Oct. 26

NEGAUNEE -- A debate among the six candidates for the First Congressional District seat being vacated by Congressman Bart Stupak will be broadcast from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26 on TV6, WLUC.

The candidates are Republican Dan Benishek, Democrat Gary McDowell, Green Party candidate Ellis Boal, Libertarian Keith Shelton, Patrick Lambert of the U.S. Taxpayers Party, and independent Glenn Wilson.

The debate will actually occur today, Monday, and be taped for telecast Tuesday.

Questions for the candidates can be submitted online by posting a comment at uppermichigansource.com.

Video of the debate will be available on the TV 6 website, uppermichiganssource.com, on Wednesday, Oct. 27, after it airs Tuesday night.

Five of the candidates debated in Petoskey on Oct. 18. Read a brief report with some of their comments on health care, Great Lakes drilling and immigration on Interlochen Public Radio.

Interlochen Public Radio has also posted short interviews with these candidates, including the following:
Ellis Boal, Green Party, who emphasizes why he is opposed to the Kennecott sulfide mine; Gary McDowell, Democrat, who discusses taxes, the stimulus, social security and the environment; Dan Benishek, Republican, who opposes health care reform and has criticized Social Security in its present form.

Click here for an Interlochen broadcast comparing the candidates on Social Security.

See the Escanaba Daily Press for comments by five of the 1st District Congressional candidates who participated in a forum in Escanaba on Oct. 20.

Nobel nominee Lois Gibbs speaks at NMU

From The North Wind (Northern Michigan University student publication), posted Oct. 21, 2010:

By James Dyer

MARQUETTE -- Grassroots community efforts can sometimes be the turning point in battling big corporations over environmental and safety issues, said Lois Gibbs, the executive director of the Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ).

Gibbs spoke at NMU (Northern Michigan University) in Jamrich 102 on Friday, Oct. 15. Her presentation, "From the Love Canal to Michigan," was sponsored by Students for Sustainable Living, among other groups, and focused on environmental action on a local level, with special regard to the controversial Kennecott Eagle Rock Mining Project. Click here to read the article.

Gubernatorial Candidate Bernero shares concrete economic plan during debate hosted by clergy; Snyder is no show

DETROIT -- During a debate hosted by the clergy of Detroit, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Virg Bernero discussed his concrete plan to restore jobs and capitalize on the economic opportunity of the city of Detroit to build a stronger Michigan.

The clergy of Detroit invited both gubernatorial candidates to participate in the Detroit-specific debate, but unfortunately Bernero’s opponent, Rick Snyder, refused to participate and did not attend. The debate was held to spark a critical discussion of the issues facing the people of Detroit.

"The success of Michigan is uniquely tied to the revival and prosperity of Detroit," said Bernero. "Michigan’s governor cannot ignore the critical role of Detroit and what we can do to help bring prosperity back to our state’s largest city. That is why I am here tonight to share with the people of Detroit my urban agenda and plan to restore our cities." Read more ...

See also Bernero's "Make it in Michigan for free" plan to attract jobs of the future to Michigan. Read the Oct. 13 Press Release on this economic plan.