People's Climate March, Part 2: Video Report: Riding People's Climate Train to New York

By Michele Bourdieu

On Sept. 19, 2014, Amtrak passengers riding a People's Climate Train assemble for a group photo at a train stop in Buffalo, NY, on the way to New York City for a weekend of workshops, meetings, lectures by climate activist leaders and the Sunday, Sept. 21,  People's Climate March. Some stayed in New York on Monday, Sept. 22, for a Flood Wall Street march as well. Pictured with the group are Houghton residents Allan Baker, Keweenaw Now videographer, and his wife, Shirley Galbraith, Keweenaw Now guest author (second row, seated right).* (Photo by Gustavo Bourdieu for Keweenaw Now)

HANCOCK -- The Amtrak train for New York City, dubbed the "People's Climate Train" by passengers who boarded it in San Francisco, picked up more passengers bound for the Sept. 21 People's Climate March along the way. Amtrak arranged for the group to be seated together in two cars, which facilitated a day of presentations, workshops and discussions on various climate change issues -- and networking among both young and old. A spirit of camaraderie and solidarity prevailed.

Susan Riederer, co-chair of the Boulder, Colo., Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) chapter, was one of the organizers of talks and discussions on the People's Climate Train.

Keweenaw Now staff boarded the train in Chicago at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18. Friday was a long day, especially since a health emergency on the train caused a delay of several hours; yet the nearly 24-hour ride from Chicago to New York City was nothing to those people we met who had been riding the train since California and other points west.

One of these, Diana Cabcabin of San Francisco, gave a presentation about Typhoon Haiyan, which had affected her family directly since it struck their town in the Philippines:

During workshops on the People's Climate Train on the way to New York City on Sept. 19, 2014, Diana Cabcabin of San Francisco talks about Typhoon Haiyan, which struck her family's home town in the Philippines. In a later presentation, Cabcabin speaks about mining companies that exploit poor communities in the Philippines. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Cabcabin is a member of Women for Genuine Security, a group that advocates for justice and educates the public about historical inequities. She questioned the value of trade agreements in the Asia Pacific region that favor large corporations rather than people in poor communities vulnerable to impacts of climate change.

A California journalist and author, Christopher Cook, spoke about the relationship between climate change and industrial agriculture with large-scale food production:

San Francisco journalist and author Christopher Cook notes that industrial, concentrated agriculture around the world produces great amounts of toxic pollution and carbon emissions while making it difficult for subsistence and small-scale farmers to survive. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Cook, who is the author of Diet for a Dead Planet, also published an article on riding the train from San Francisco. He actually filed the article when the train stopped in Chicago, and it was posted on Sept. 19.**

Activist James Blakely of Boise, Idaho, said he also boarded the train in San Francisco. He spoke about his recent experience in Alberta, Canada -- participating in the 4th Annual Tar Sands Healing Walk with First Nations people who are most immediately impacted by this industry:

James Blakely of Boise, Idaho, recounts his participation in the 4th Annual Tar Sands Healing Walk in Alberta, Canada. led by First Nations tribes of the area. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)***

Blakely pointed out that the boreal forests, once rich in biodiversity, are destroyed to enable the industry to mine the tar sands. The process puts so many toxins into the environment that the First Nations people can no longer hunt and fish as they used to do for subsistence.

"The only real jobs up there are for the oil companies, so they're now almost forced to work for the oil companies or leave their land," he said.

According to Lemmon McMillan of Evanston, Ill., talking about climate issues must include the intersectionality of poverty, racism and gender inequality. These social justice issues, along with government corruption and U.S. foreign policy, are all connected, he says.

Lemmon McMillan of Evanston, Ill., joins in the discussion of climate change and insists it must be discussed in connection with social justice issues, especially poverty and racism. (Photo by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

McMillan, whose own heritage includes Native American and African American roots, is working on a series of videos intended to discuss these issues and how they are all related.

McMillan said he spoke with teenagers from an African American community on the south side of Chicago and one asked him why he should be concerned about climate change that might kill him in 20 or 30 years when he's facing situations (police or gang members) that could kill him now.

"The climate movement needs to answer that question," McMillan said. "We all have to support each other and understand that all our issues are related."

Two other Illinois residents -- Jill Paulus of Wheaton, Ill., and Joyce Good of Chicago -- spoke about an environmental issue that is now impacting people of many different socio-economic groups -- fracking:

Jill Paulus of Wheaton, Illinois, and Joyce Good of Chicago speak about fracking in Illinois and legislation to regulate it. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Paulus and Good spoke about citizens' grassroots efforts to learn about legislative "rules" for fracking and the importance of participation in public hearings on the issue.

The climate movement, led by 350.org and other groups, more recently has been encouraging students on college campuses to influence their colleges and universities to divest from fossil fuel companies. This divestment takes as a model the divestment from South Africa which helped to end the unjust apartheid system.

On the People's Climate Train, Becky Romatoski, a graduate student at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), spoke optimistically about increasing numbers of colleges, students and faculty now beginning to divest from companies that produce fossil fuels:

Rebecca ("Becky") Romatoski, a doctoral candidate in nuclear science and engineering at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), talks about students, faculty and colleges that are divesting from fossil fuel companies. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

"The biggest issue is not hurting these people (fossil fuel companies) financially, but hurting them on a moral level," Romatoski said.

Romatoski is a member of the student group Fossil Free MIT. After the Sept. 21 People's Climate March, she wrote to Keweenaw Now saying the march was a great way to recruit more MIT students for that group, which is active in raising awareness of climate change on campus.****

"Our group right now has succeeded in getting MIT to have a committee on climate change which will propose actions for MIT, and our group has secured divestment as one key aspect the committee will consider," Romatoski writes.

 As for the People's Climate Train, she notes it was a great and unique experience.

"I will never forget it and the empowerment and excitement from the experience!" Romatoski adds.

Amanda Gabryszak boarded the train in Salt Lake City and, once she realized it was a People's Climate Train, joined in the discussions and workshops, played her guitar in the lounge and regretted that she had to get off in Buffalo, NY, and was unable to attend the Climate March.

 

Amanda Gabryszak took this photo on the People's Climate Train and wrote a blog article on her experience, noting she even led a workshop on conservation biology. Keweenaw Now's videographer, Allan Baker, is pictured here in the aisle. While people often had to stand in the aisle to hear the speakers, they were very considerate about making room for other passengers passing through the cars. (Photo © and courtesy Amanda Gabryszak. Reprinted with permission.)*****

Susan Riederer, co-chair of the Boulder, Colo., chapter of Citizens Climate Lobby, also commented about the positive experience of the People's Climate Train, the Climate March and the Flood Wall Street action, in which she also participated.

"I am still on a high from our time together (on the train), the march and then my time with the Flood Wall Street direct action," she wrote in an email to Keweenaw Now last week.

Here Riederer speaks about the Citizens' Climate Lobby:

During the workshops held on the People's Climate Train Susan Riederer of Boulder, Colo., describes her experience working with the Citizens' Climate Lobby. (Video by Keweenaw Now)******

Another speaker who rode the train from San Francisco -- Pete Gang, an architect from Petaluma, Calif. -- explained the connection between green building and climate change:

Architect Pete Gang of Petaluma, Calif., speaks about green building and climate change. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Gang pointed out that at least 40 percent of all energy is used in the making and operation of buildings. In addition, 50 percent of the energy used in commercial buildings is used for heating and cooling space and water.

"Green building is a very simple idea -- just trying to make buildings that are more energy efficient, resource efficient and people friendly," Gang explained, "because actually a lot of buildings that we build, especially commercial buildings, are full of chemicals that are known to be toxic to humans."

Gang said he has designed green residential buildings with a range of alternative techniques, including straw-bale, which is an agricultural waste product that could be put to better use as wall insulation. His guidelines for building an energy efficient house follow this order: 1) reduce the demand by designing the building so it needs minimal energy for heating or cooling (with insulation, windows, size, etc.); 2) use energy-efficient appliances; 3) use renewables like solar and wind to provide energy.

Three activists planning to participate in the Sept. 22 Flood Wall Street action spoke about action and civil disobedience, encouraging listeners to take training that would be provided in New York before committing to a civil disobedience action. They also explained that supporters would also be needed for those who may get arrested.

Aaron "iLLLy" Murphy described his own efforts to find active solutions to the climate problem:

Aaron "iLLLy" Murphy suggests possible solutions to the climate problem, including his own experience living in an intentional community, Dancing Rabbit Eco-Village in Missouri. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Illinois resident Hillary Colby described her experience with civil disobedience in Chicago:

Illinois resident Hillary Colby speaks about her experience as one of the original Chicago 22 who risked arrest in front of the federal building in Chicago during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline in June 2012. (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Bobby Wengronowitz, a graduate student at Boston College and one of the organizers of the workshops and talks on the People's Climate Train, shared his views on why "putting your bodies on the street" in the Climate March is a good beginning and why the Flood Wall Street action is even more important:

Activist Bobby Wengronowitz emphasizes the importance of the Flood Wall Street action planned for Sept. 22, 2014, in New York City (a day after the People's Climate March). (Video by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

Regina Birchem of Minneapolis, a member of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, said she chose to ride the People's Climate Train to New York rather than taking a bus from Minneapolis because of a train experience she had in 1995 -- traveling from Helsinki to Beijing for the 4th World Conference of Women:

Regina Birchem of Minneapolis explains how a 1995 train ride with the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom -- from Helsinki to Beijing for the 4th World Conference of Women -- inspired her to take the People's Climate Train to the 2014 People's Climate March in New York. (Video by Keweenaw Now)

Finally, as the train approached Penn Station late Friday evening, Jorge Arauz of Ecuador, who now lives in Madison, Wis., told Keweenaw Now why he was heading for the People's Climate March.

Jorge Arauz of Madison, Wis., displays the sign he made to take to the People's Climate March. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

"It's just painful to live every day seeing what's happened," Arauz said. "It's outrageous to see the inaction of our leaders."

Soon Arauz was leading the group in a song titled "Sing for the Climate":

As the People's Climate Train approaches New York City on Friday, Sept. 19, 2014, travelers keep up their spirits and motivation as they join in singing.

Notes:
* This is the second in a series of articles about the People's Climate March and related events Sept. 19-22, 2014, in New York City. Shirley Galbraith is the author of "People's Climate March, Part 1, Letter: Houghton couple travel to New York to march for planet's future," posted on Keweenaw Now Sept. 30, 2014.

** See Christopher Cook's article, "All Aboard the People’s Climate Train," posted Sept. 19, 2014, on Earth Island Journal.

*** Click here to read more about the Tar Sands Healing Walk.

**** Read about Fossil Free MIT on their Web site.

***** Click here to read Amanda Gabryszak's blog entry on the People's Climate Train.

****** Click here to learn about the Citizens' Climate Lobby.

Portage Library to host "Postcards from the Past" at Oct. 14 Philatelists' meeting

HOUGHTON -- October is National Stamp Collecting Month, and the Portage Lake District Library will host the Portage Lake Philatelists for their monthly meeting from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. TONIGHT, Tuesday, Oct. 14.

Guest speaker and long-time stamp collector Glen Kivela will present "Postcards from the Past." In this "show and tell" presentation, Kivela will show the different kinds of cards that are collected and explain the history behind them. His collection that will be on display will feature early to mid-century postcards that show the history of the Copper Country and the Upper Peninsula.

This program is geared towards beginning and experienced stamp collectors as well as those who are curious about looking at local history from a unique point of view.

All library programs and events are free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl.org.

Keep Michigan Wolves Protected to host Town Hall Meeting TONIGHT, Oct. 13, in Marquette

Propositions 1 and 2 on the November 2014 Ballot would allow more wolf hunting in Michigan. Keep Michigan Wolves Protected is holding a Town Hall Meeting TONIGHT, Oct. 13, at the Marquette Ramada Inn to discuss the issue. (Photo courtesy keepwolvesprotected.com)

MARQUETTE -- Keep Michigan Wolves Protected will host a Town Hall Meeting from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. TONIGHT, Monday, Oct. 13, at the Marquette Ramada Inn, 412 W. Washington St., Marquette.

Learn about Michigan's wolves and how you can get involved to defeat ballot Proposals 1 and 2 this November.

Click here for more information.

Click here for links to access the proposals.

Finnish American Heritage Center to host contra dance Oct. 15

HANCOCK -- Due to popular demand, Finlandia University’s Finnish American Heritage Center (FAHC) will offer contra dancing monthly during the academic year.

The first contra dance of the season will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the FAHC Wednesday, Oct. 15. Instruction will be provided at the beginning of the session, and the dance is easily learned by anyone regardless of experience. No partner is necessary, and all ages and skill levels are invited to attend. Cost is $6 per person.

Music for the dance will be provided by members of the Thimbleberry Band, and Colin Hoekje will serve as the caller. Hoekje, a student at Michigan Tech, has experience calling at contra dances, including a major contra dance event in Lower Michigan earlier this year.

Contra dances are also set for Nov. 12, Jan. 14, Feb, 11, March 18 and April 8 at the Finnish American Heritage Center, located at 435 Quincy Street in Hancock, on the campus of Finlandia University.

For more information, call (906) 487-7302.

Ski Club welcomes volunteers for trail work at Swedetown gorge Saturday, Oct. 11

During a break in trail work at Maasto Hiihto, Sandy Aronson and Gromit the Trail Dog admire the fall colors near Swedetown gorge. Volunteers are needed TOMORROW, Saturday, Oct. 11, to help on the trails. (Photo © and courtesy Arlyn and Sandy Aronson of Trail Mutt Reports)

HANCOCK -- Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club (KNSC) members invite more volunteers to help them work on the Maasto Hiihto trails this Saturday, Oct. 11, and get the trails ready for snow.

Some KNSC volunteers will be working on the Swedetown Creek gorge Saturday. If you can help, meet at 9 a.m. at the Tomasi Trailhead. Wear work or hiking boots and bring work gloves and safety glasses if you have them. KNSC will bring extra if you don't and will supply you with all necessary tools. You might also want to bring some water and snacks for yourself.

"Gromit will be so happy to see you, she'll feature you on her blog!" says Sandy Aronson.*

The work bee is scheduled approximately from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., but your help is welcome even if you can't stay for the whole time. Please RSVP to sandyaronsonpt@gmail.com if you can, but last minute additions are welcomed.

* See more photos of Gromit's recent trail adventures on Trail Mutt Reports.

Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra to present concert of music from Argentina Oct. 11 at Rozsa

The Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra will present "Vive Latino!" -- music from Argentina -- on Saturday, Oct. 11. (Concert poster courtesy Michigan Technological University)

HOUGHTON -- Noted Argentinian conductor, Luis Gorelik, will guest conduct the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra in "Vive Latino!" -- an electrifying evening of música from Argentina at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Rozsa Center. With masterworks from the country's leading composers -- including Alberto Ginastera -- this unique performance highlights the frenetic energy, danceable rhythms, and exhilarating pulse of the music.

General admission tickets are $19 for adults and $6 for youth.

Buy tickets and attend the performance or LISTEN LIVE online for free!

Tickets may also be available at the door.

Folk Dance Pot Luck to be Oct. 10 at Canterbury House

HOUGHTON -- A Folk Dance Pot Luck will be held beginning at 6:45 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Canterbury House in Houghton. International folk dancing will follow -- from 7:45 p.m. to about 10 p.m. Open to all.

Canterbury House is the yellow house across the highway from Michigan Tech's Administration Building. Keep in mind that parking is limited at the house.

Students and beginning dancers welcome. Please bring a dish to pass and a donation for the use of the house.

"New Work by Clyde Mikkola" on exhibit at Community Arts Center; reception Oct. 9

 Art by Clyde Mikkola. (Photo courtesy Copper Country Community Arts Center)

HANCOCK -- The Copper Country Community Arts Center announces its current exhibition in the Kerredge Gallery: "New Work by Clyde Mikkola," on display through Oct. 31.

Calumet artist Clyde Mikkola paints a variety of subjects from landscapes and seascapes to portrait miniatures. He works with pencil, watercolor, acrylic and oil paints. In his colossal painting titled "And Life Goes On" thirty-five figures create a narrative with strong symbolism.

An opening reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9.

This exhibition is supported in part by a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Copper Country Community Arts Center is located at 126 Quincy Street in Hancock. For more information visit www.coppercountryarts.com or call (906) 482-2333.

Club Indigo to feature film "October Sky" with homestyle buffet Oct. 10 at Calumet Theatre

CALUMET -- The October food and film event at the Calumet Theatre, Club Indigo, will present the film October Sky at 7:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct 10.

October Sky is a unique, prize-winning drama based on the life of Homer Hickam, Jr, who fell in love with space travel when he watched Sputnik race across the sky on Oct. 4, 1957. Hickam forsook the life of a coal miner in a West Virginia town to study rocketry and rose to international fame.

The movie follows Hickam during his high school days as he creates the first of a series of rockets despite great obstacles -- some serious, some amusing -- to rise to fame in the military and at Cape Canaveral with Werner von Braun. An excellent cast is headed by a youthful Jake Gyllenhaal as Hickam.

The movie will begin at 7:15 p.m., preceded by a homestyle Southern buffet from Hancock's Kangas Café at 6 p.m. Cost for both is $20, while the film alone is $5. Kids ten and under will receive a special discount. For the buffet, call the theatre (337-2610) before 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, for a reservation.

Finlandia's Nordic Film Series resumes with Finnish comedy Oct. 9

HANCOCK -- The 11th season of the Nordic Film Series kicks off October 9 with a comedy about a man from Lapland who needs to buy a digital TV box by dawn or risk losing his girlfriend.

In Lapland Odyssey this man sets out into the night with his two friends to find a box, and on this adventure the three face many entertaining challenges. The film will be shown at Finlandia University’s Finnish American Heritage Center at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9.

A 2010 comedy by Finnish director Dome Karukoski, Lapland Odyssey is about 90 minutes long. The film is in Finnish and is subtitled in English. It won two comedy awards in 2011 and was nominated for two others. There is some adult language and alcohol use portrayed in this film.

Both showings of Lapland Odyssey are open to the public; donations are appreciated. For more information, call the Finnish American Heritage Center at 906-487-7549 or 906-487-7302.

(Poster courtesy Finlandia University)

Guest article: A Postscript on Weird Timing and Pending Collapse

By Louis Galdieri*
Posted on Louis Galdieri's blog Oct. 2, 2014
Reprinted here with permission

Since I wrote my last post on Eagle Mine, I’ve been thinking about the thing I most wanted to say and never managed to say. I’d hoped in that post to call attention to the weird timing of Conibear’s announcement, but I couldn’t quite figure out how to do that. The company announced the start of mining operations in the Yellow Dog Plains right in the wake of the People’s Climate March, and during a week when world leaders were gathered at the UN to discuss the global climate crisis and acknowledge the fragile condition of the biosphere.

The Eagle announcement never takes any of that into account. It makes some predictable noises about environmental responsibility. You don’t have to listen very hard to hear the dissonance.

Hands up during the 12:58 moment of silence at the People's Climate March. Just before this, a group led a chant that went something like: "Keep the tar sands in the ground / Close the mines and shut them down." Other than that I didn't hear too much talk about mining at the march. (Photo and caption © and courtesy Louis Galdieri. Reprinted with permission.)

That this mining operation poses an immediate threat to the Yellow Dog watershed hardly needs saying. As I mentioned in my last post, Lundin Mining cannot point to a nickel and copper mining operation in the U.S. or Canada that has not polluted groundwater or surrounding waters, and there is no reason to believe that Eagle will be the magical exception -- despite the company’s claims that the water they are discharging is drinkable.** No one who makes that statement should be taken seriously, let alone believed, unless he follows it with a nice big glass of minewater, and fetches one for the kids while he’s at it.

Eagle is just the start. The bigger mining, leasing and exploration boom all around Lake Superior only magnifies the threat. One of the busiest mining operations in the world is about to be staged around one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. The timing couldn’t be worse. Freshwater ecosystems are under greater pressure than ever before. Just this week, the Living Planet Index reported a 76 percent decline in freshwater species since 1970. That alarming statistic is one very clear indication of pending environmental collapse, and reason enough to protect Lake Superior from any further encroachments by risky mining operations.

It’s disconcerting, too, that the new mining around Lake Superior was spurred, in no small part, by Chinese growth and urbanization, which put a new premium on copper and nickel; and of course urbanization in China -- which starts with pouring cement and raising stainless steel -- will only aggravate emissions, further compromise China’s freshwater resources, and hasten environmental collapse. It is hard to see how this can end well, and it’s difficult for me to understand why anyone would pretend it is sustainable.

The weirdest twist in all this may be that this new mining operation goes into production just as China appears to be slowing down, after two decades of heady growth. As a result, "money managers are bearish on copper," reports Bloomberg’s Luzi Ann Javier in a review of commodity ETFs; and "global inventories of nickel tracked by the London Metal Exchange are at an all-time high." There is a glut. The warehouses are full. Right now, at least, it looks as if the rush is over.

Editor's Notes:

* Guest author Louis Galdieri is a filmmaker based in New York City. He and fellow filmmaker Ken Ross visited Houghton, Mich., in October 2013 and screened their documentary 1913 Massacre, about the Italian Hall tragedy, at Michigan Tech University's Writing Across the Peninsula Conference, where Keweenaw Now interviewed them. (Inset: October 2013 Keweenaw Now photo of Louis Galdieri, speaking during interview at Michigan Tech.)

** See Louis Galdieri's Sept. 28, 2014, post, "Does Eagle Mine Have Social License to Operate?"

Hancock Bike, Pedestrian Committee to host public meeting Oct. 9

HANCOCK -- The Hancock Bike and Pedestrian Committee and city officials will host a public meeting Thursday, Oct. 9, for comments and suggestions on making Hancock safer and more convenient for non-motorized transportation and transit use. The meeting will take place from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m at the First United Methodist Church, 401 Quincy Street (next to city hall). Following a brief presentation, members of the public may offer suggestions on how to make Hancock safer and more convenient for walking, cycling and transit use by people of all ages and abilities.

Maps and plans of existing infrastructure and proposals for new walking and biking routes will be available for viewing, and forum hosts will answer questions and take verbal and written comments. Hancock residents and people who commute to the city may also comment via an on-line Non-Motorized Transportation survey accessed from a link at the city web site. Click here to access the survey. It is anonymous, and it just takes a few minutes.

Portage Library to host Oct. 8 presentation for veterans, their families, counselors, more

HOUGHTON -- The Portage Lake District Library will host the Community Coalition on Grief and Bereavement for a public presentation from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 8. A panel of speakers will present "The Impact of Traumatic Grief and PTSD on Veterans and Their Families."

The purpose of this program is to provide veterans and those who care about them the information they need to understand traumatic grief and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and learn how to regain mental and physical health.

Panel speakers include Derek VanBuren, administrative sergeant at the Ishpeming National Guard Armory and a veteran wounded in the Afghanistan War; Christy Girard, Psy.D., psychologist at the Veterans Administration Clinic in Hancock; and Chaplain Herb Becker, chaplain with the Veterans Administration in Iron Mountain.

Veterans, their families, therapists, counselors, clergy, and health care workers are especially encouraged to attend. All are welcome. Light refreshments will be served.

Library programs are free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl.org.

Artist applications available at Community Arts Center for 38th Annual Poor Artists Sale

HANCOCK -- Applications are available for the Copper Country Community Arts Council’s 38th Annual Poor Artists Sale, which will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6, at CLK Schools gymnasium in Calumet. Artists working in any medium, who make their own original work, are eligible to apply.

The booth fee is $75. Application deadline is Wednesday, Oct. 15. Entries will be juried by a panel of professional artists. Originality and quality of the work will be of primary consideration. Applications may be picked up at the Community Arts Center, located at 126 Quincy Street in Hancock. For more information call 482-2333 or email cynthia@coppercountryarts.com.

Keweenaw Garden Club to meet Oct. 6 at Portage Library

HOUGHTON -- The Portage Lake District Library will host the Keweenaw Garden Club for an evening of gardening tips and ideas for working with our short growing season.

James Niemela, commercial market farmer in Baraga County, will present "Season Extenders for Keweenaw Vegetable Gardens" at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 6.

The Keweenaw’s shorter growing season and cool nights can make vegetable gardening challenging. Niemela, a local commercial farmer who uses organic methods, will share low-tech ideas that anyone can use to extend the harvest season in their home gardens. His focus will be on inexpensive options such as low tunnels, use of hardy cultivars that withstand freezing, and succession planting for continued harvest into the fall and early winter.

The Keweenaw Garden Club was established by and for gardening enthusiasts. They have meetings and presentations at the Portage Lake District Library on the first Monday of each month. Those who are interested in learning more about the club are welcome to attend the general meeting at 6:30 p.m. prior to the presentation at 7 p.m. or visit the Keweenaw Garden Club Web site.

Library programs are free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl,org.

Music-O-Rama: An Eclectic Musical Celebration at the Rozsa Oct. 4

HOUGHTON -- The Rozsa Center will explode with an eclectic celebration of music as Michigan Tech’s Superior Wind Symphony, Jazz Lab Band and Concert Choir converge for Music-O-Rama at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets, which are $13 for adults and $5 for youth, can be purchased at the Rozsa Center, through the ticket office at 487-2073 or online.

Music-O-Rama offers a broad and energetic array of music for all tastes and ages. Chamber Choir Director Jared Hendrickson explains that it is an expansion of last year’s popular Band-O-Rama.

"This fast-paced concert is a really exciting way to become acquainted with all the musical aspects of Michigan Tech. This will be lots of fun for the audience as they’re surrounded by different musical styles."

Michigan Tech’s Superior Wind Symphony is the University’s premier wind ensemble. Its concerts traditionally offer symphonic thrills, innovative programming, fruitful collaborations and exciting premieres. The award-winning Jazz Lab Band is made up of 20 musicians from throughout the country and specializes in jazz from all eras, plus Latin jazz, funk, fusion, blues and original compositions. The Concert Choir is a 60- to 80-voice ensemble of faculty, staff, students and community singers performing a wide variety of music -- from Gregorian Chant to new works. Together, they will offer a vibrant mélange of styles and sounds.

For more information on this and other events, visit the Rozsa Center’s website and Facebook page.

Orpheum Theater to host Omega House Benefit Concert TONIGHT, Oct. 3

HANCOCK -- The Orpheum Theater in Hancock will host a Fall Benefit Concert for Omega House at 7 p.m. TONIGHT, Friday, Oct. 3. Doors open at 6 p.m. and music begins at 7 p.m.

A donation of $20 adults/$15 students to the house gets you in. Bring all your friends and have a great time supporting a great cause!

Opening are Libby Meyer, Erika Vye, Steve Brimm and Dave Morehouse, followed by Michael Waite of Marquette. Closing will be Bob Hiltunen and his rock 'n roll band. Once again, the Orpheum is sponsoring a very exciting silent auction with items from local artists and businesses. Come to the Orpheum, enjoy a handmade pizza (gluten-free options!). Bring your kids of all ages.

Omega House offers a peaceful, homelike environment for terminally ill people and provides end-of-life care that emphasizes compassion, independence, respect and dignity. In cooperation with local hospice programs, Omega House provides residents with exceptional care and attention 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

The Orpheum Theater is at 426 Quincy Street in Hancock.

First Friday in Calumet to offer new art exhibits, activities Oct. 3

Explorer, by Cynthia Coté, from her exhibit "When I was in Iceland," opening Oct. 3 at Galerie Bohème in Calumet. (Photo courtesy Galerie Bohème)

CALUMET -- First Friday in Calumet -- Oct. 3, 2014 -- promises to offer some great new gallery art openings for the month of October and art activities open to all. Here is the line-up:

Paige Wiard Gallery: "Small Things: Animal Sculptures and Sketchbook Drawings" by Joyce Koskenmaki

 

Doll sculpture by Joyce Koskenmaki, now on exhibit at the Paige Wiard Gallery in Calumet. (Photo courtesy Paige Wiard Gallery)

Joyce Koskenmaki is the featured artist for the month of October at the Paige Wiard Gallery. For years Koskenmaki has had an interest in the making, history and meaning of dolls. In her research into different cultures, she has found dolls have great power and deep meaning for many people.

While she has taught people how to make dolls at the college level, Koskenmaki says she now makes them for herself.

"Because I am an artist, they are serious sculptures," Koskenmaki says. "But, as dolls, they take on identities of their own; and I find they are capable of providing comfort and friendship, as dolls have done through the ages. I make the heads from clay, fire and paint them, and make bodies from cloth and sticks. I let them shape their own identities as I work, not starting with preconceptions. Each one is different and I feel a connection with them all."

For her "Small Things" show, Joyce has combined her dolls with sketches form old sketchbooks of things that have inspired her: trees, waterfalls and animals.

Sketch by Joyce Koskenmaki. (Photo courtesy Paige Wiard Gallery)

"The sketchbook drawings are ones I have chosen to accompany the dolls," Koskenmaki explains. "It has been fun to go back and look through my old sketchbooks, finding things I wanted to work on longer to develop into finished drawings. They are a kind of mini-retrospective of subjects that have interested me: trees, waterfalls, animals -- and through them all, abstractions, all in pen and ink or pencil."

An opening reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 3 at the Paige Wiard Gallery, 109 Fifth Street, Calumet. Please call 906-337-5970 or email paigewiardgallery@gmail.com with any questions.

Galerie Bohème: "When I was in Iceland" by Cynthia Coté

Art by Cynthia Coté from her exhibit "When I was in Iceland." (Photo courtesy Galerie Bohème)

Galerie Bohème will present "When I was in Iceland," new works by Cynthia Coté, opening with a public reception from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3.

Cynthia's intriguing pen and ink, and colored pencil drawings were produced and inspired by her art trip to the back country in Iceland.

"Yep Cynthia took an art trip to Iceland and we get to see and perhaps collect a couple of these 28 images," says Galerie Bohème host Tom Rudd. "So come and view, have a cuppa, a crumpet, slice of cheese. Be there."

Galerie Bohème is at 423 Fifth Street in Calumet.

Calumet Art Center: Open Studio

The Calumet Art Center will offer a Lampwork Bead Class Oct. 25 and 26. This is one of several classes offered at the Center this fall.* (Poster courtesy Calumet Art Center)

Calumet Art Center will hold an open studio from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3. Visit the Center to learn about adult classes in line for this fall: Twining on a small portable loom, a Precious Metal Clay class, an intermediate Fun with Clay class, Leathercrafting, Beginning Weaving, and Lampwork Bead Making.*

Explore the weaving, glass bead making, and clay studios to see projects in progress that just may inspire you to enjoy adventures in traditional art forms.

The Calumet Art Center is at 57055 Fifth Street. Call 906-934-2228 for more information.

Copper Country Associated Artists Gallery: "Fall Leaf Collage Print"

Copper Country Associated Artists will offer a workshop, "Fall Leaf Collage Print," from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on First Friday, Oct. 3, at their Gallery, 205 Fifth St.

You are welcome to gather and bring with you some fallen leaves or other greenery from your yard or garden to create your collage print. All ages are welcome. For more information contact the Gallery at 337-1252 or Pam at 337-2274.

Cross Country Sports: "Spirited Houses" by jd slack

jd slack’s pastel paintings of houses evoke the mining houses of the Copper Country in many moods in abstract forms. Meet the artist at an open house with refreshments from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3. Cross Country Sports is at 507 Oak Street in Calumet. For more information call 337-4520.

* Click here to learn more about Calumet Art Center classes or visit their Web site.

Houghton Energy Efficiency Team (HEET) core leadership team to meet Oct. 3 at Portage Library

By Richelle Winkler*

During the Sept. 17, 2014, community meeting hosted by the Houghton Energy Efficiency Team (HEET), Richelle Winkler, Michigan Tech assistant professor of sociology and demography, leads a community group discussion on priorities for developing a future energy vision for the local area. (Photos by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

HOUGHTON -- The Houghton Energy Efficiency Team (HEET) core leadership team meeting will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. this Friday, Oct. 3, at the Portage Lake District Library. The public is welcome to attend.

Here is the agenda:

• Welcome and general announcements.
• Summary of the community kick-off meeting we held Sept 17. Did anyone take pictures?

Abhilash Kantamneni, Michigan Tech Ph.D. candidate in computer science who does research on solar energy at the Keweenaw Research Center, addresses participants at the Sept. 17 community meeting hosted by the Houghton Energy Efficiency Team.**

• Introduce graduate students who are writing our Community Energy Plan for the GUEP (Georgetown University Energy Prize) due Nov 10.
• Vision statement: the graduate student team will present a vision statement they gleaned from the discussion notes from the Sept. 17 meeting. Opportunity will be offered to provide feedback and make adjustments as necessary. This vision statement will serve as a guide as the team develops more specific goals and strategies. Essentially, it should inform everything HEET does.
• Goals. The graduate student team will present a set of goals associated with the vision statement. These goals are the more specific and measurable things HEET wants to accomplish. They should be realistic and attainable but might also carry significant weight. They should have specific time frames attached, and the time frame might vary for each -- within one year weatherize 500 homes, within five years incorporate 20 percent renewable, etc. We'll have a chance to provide feedback and suggest additional or different goals.
• Update on application submission and next steps in GUEP.
• What will we do with the money? Set up a trustee board now.
• Discussion on how we can better engage and work more closely with utilities. How can we find common ground? How can we work together?
• Weatherization coordination: New Power Tour, HEET, community organizations -- Melissa Davis.

Editor's Notes:

* Richelle Winkler is Michigan Tech assistant professor of sociology and demography in the Environment and Energy Policy Program, Department of Social Sciences. (Please excuse our original misspelling of Prof. Winkler's first name. Now corrected.)

** See the Sept. 29, 2014, Michigan Land Use Institute article about Abhilash Kantamneni's work with solar energy, "MTU scientist says high rates make rooftop solar a good Up North deal."

People's Climate March, Part 1, Letter: Houghton couple travel to New York to march for planet's future

By Shirley Galbraith*

Shirley Galbraith of Houghton participates in the Sept. 21 People's Climate March in New York City. (Photos by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now)

In September, 2014, a historic summit on climate change was about to take place. Not only were Heads of States from all over the world planning on being there, but also the global media. With our future on the line, concerned citizens and social activists decided to take a weekend before the anticipated summit, and use it to bend the course of history.

In New York City alone there was an unprecedented climate mobilization -- in size, beauty, and impact. It was estimated that there were between 3 and 4 hundred thousand who met at Columbus Circle and walked. Allan and I had decided to join the march though it meant a total of about 36 hours of travel time one way. Why? Because the older we get the more we worry about the future of our planet for our children and grandchildren.

Young and old march together -- many parents carrying kids on their shoulders -- during the Sept. 21 Climate March in New York City.

People chatted as we marched along. One woman commented that it was nice to be with like-minded people; another remarked that if the establishment keeps their heads in the sand much longer, our world is doomed. A little girl, about 8 years old,  passed me at one point proudly displaying a sign that she and her Dad had made which said, "Children need clean air." I asked her why she was marching, and she said something to the effect that we need to let God know that our earth needs help and maybe he’s watching all these worried people and will tell the president to take care of the earth. She wasn’t exactly super coherent, but it was obvious that she was aware of why she and her Dad were in this march. Her brother, slightly younger, piped in something about puppies whereupon the girl explained that they have a cute puppy named Sam and they wanted to make sure that the animals would be safe too.

There was a lively group of seniors and "Grannies," some in wheel chairs or using canes.

Carrying a banner asking, "What will be our legacy?" elders march for the future of their children and grandchildren.

A large number of LGBTs walked hand in hand along with Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Pagan, Unitarian, atheist and various other groups. I had situated myself with the faith groups though I could have joined any number of other categories.

According to Rabbi Arthur Waskow of Philadelphia's Shalom Center (in red, waving at front of ark), more than 10,000 members of Communities of Faith and Spirit joined the New York City Climate March. "We were led by an extraordinary Noah’s Ark, built by students of the Auburn Theological Seminary under the leadership of Isaac Luria," Waskow writes. "I was able to join the thirty people who actually rode aboard the Ark. From that vantage point I was able to see the ocean of humanity that was pouring out to heal the oceans, the rivers, the clouds and mountains, the air and earth, the many many species, that make up the interwoven ecosystems of our planet."**

The signs were creative, poignant, sad, funny, imaginative. There were some floats and people dressed in costumes, dresses, jeans and you name it. Everybody helped each other in a spirit of friendship and commonalities despite differences in beliefs. Allan took lots of pictures for our Keweenaw Now site.

So, here I am, doing my part!
Love,

Shirley

Editor's Notes:

* Guest author Shirley Galbraith is a resident of Houghton and a member of the Keweenaw Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Shirley wrote this letter to her children and friends and shares it with Keweenaw Now. With her husband, Allan Baker, videographer and photographer for Keweenaw Now, she has also reported on climate marches against the Keystone Pipeline in Washington, D.C. Click here to see her story on the Feb. 13, 2013, Keystone protest.

** Rabbi Arthur Waskow has included Keweenaw Now in his emails since we published his article on the late Pete Seeger last January. He kept us posted on plans for the September Climate March. His comments here are taken from his Sept. 22, 2014, report on the March, "The Ocean of Humanity: 300,000+ call for Climate Action Now!" on theshalomcenter.org.

This is the first in a series of articles on the recent People's Climate March and related events. Watch for photos and videos, coming soon!

Celebrate French Canadian Heritage Week with dance, song Oct. 1, 2

Maple Sugar Folk perform French Canadian songs during the Omega House benefit concert last July. This Thursday, Oct. 2, they will perform and lead French Canadian songs at the Chassell Heritage Center. (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

HANCOCK -- The public is invited to celebrate French Canadian Heritage Week at two special events in the Keweenaw: a dance on Wednesday, Oct. 1, and a music and singing event on Thursday, Oct. 2.

In this photo some of the Thimbleberry musicians -- from left, Oren Tikkanen, Libby Meyer, Matthew Durocher and Dave Bezotte -- perform during a previous ethnic musical event. On Wednesday, Oct. 1, they will be joined by Anna Gawboy on concertina to play for a French Canadian dance at the Finnish American Heritage Center. (Keweenaw Now file photo)

A French Canadian dance will be held beginning at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock. Dance to the music of the Thimbleberry Band (Libby Meyer on fiddle; Anna Gawboy on concertina; Oren Tikkanen on guitar, banjo and vocals; Matt Durocher on bass; and David Bezotte on accordion and vocals) playing a variety of French Canadian fiddle tunes and songs. Join in contra dancing called by Colin Hoekje (beginners welcome), learn French Canadian folk dances, and enjoy waltzes, schottisches and other favorites. $6 admission. The Finnish American Heritage Center is at 435 Quincy Street in Hancock.

A music and singing event will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Chassell Heritage Center, 2nd St., Chassell. Enjoy French Canadian folk and response songs led by Maple Sugar Folk and lively fiddle tunes and step dancing by Carrie, Emma and Susan Dlutkowski. Doors open at 6 p.m., so come early to view the exhibits, including an exhibit on local French Canadian settlement. Free admission -- donations appreciated.

For more information, contact Dave Bezotte at dbezotte@yahoo.com or 906-370-4956.

Letter: Embattled Great Lakes woman grateful for strong show of support

By Laura Gauger*

Laura Gauger paddling the Flambeau River. (Photo by Steve Garske of Marenisco, Mich., Oct 2011. Reprinted with permission.)

DULUTH, Minn. -- I stood up for clean water. I used my voice as a citizen. And now I am being punished by having to personally pay a substantial portion of a multinational mining company’s court costs.

That’s right. I am a citizen plaintiff in a Clean Water Act case against Rio Tinto, one of the largest mining corporations in the world. The case involved illegal discharges of pollutants into a stream at the company’s Flambeau Mine near Ladysmith, Wisconsin. For photos and official court documents, click HERE.

My co-plaintiffs and I won the case in U.S. District Court and exposed Rio Tinto’s highly touted "model mine" for what it is -- just one more example of how metallic sulfide mines always pollute. The ruling, however, was overturned on appeal, and now the court is ordering the plaintiffs, including me as an individual, to pay the polluter’s court costs. The bill is over $60,000, and my share is $20,500.

I am just a few donations short of paying off my share of these court costs awarded to Rio Tinto in the Flambeau Mine Clean Water Act case! Right now I am about $1500 short of my goal -- almost there! If you have not yet contributed, will you help put me over the top with a tax-deductible donation to my fundraiser?

I am completely OVERWHELMED by this huge flood of generosity. Truly, we have scored a victory on TWO different fronts in this lawsuit:

The first is a VICTORY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. The court case provided a means for exposing, under oath and with credibility, the serious water pollution problems at the Flambeau Mine site. So the next time the Flambeau Mine is held up by supporters of PolyMet or Twin Metals (Minnesota), Lundin (Michigan), GTac (Wisconsin), the Pebble Partnership (Alaska) or anyone else as an example of how mining can be done "without polluting local waters," you will have solid ammunition to use in the defense of your clean water.

The second is a VICTORY FOR THE "LITTLE GUY." Rallying the way you did to help me sends the following message, loud and clear, to Rio Tinto and other corporate polluters:

Enough! You cannot ride roughshod over citizens who are simply trying to protect public waters, and you cannot keep us down. We "little guys" watch out for each other, we have each other’s backs, and we are tenacious. You may as well give up on your latest mining proposals because we WILL ultimately prevail in this battle to protect the water and the "little ones" whose voices need to be heard.

What happened to me is an assault to all citizen activists. If polluters can get away with bullying even one person for trying to enforce the Clean Water Act, it will make it more difficult for all of us to protect our drinking water, lakes and streams. Not only will it have a chilling effect on the ability and willingness of ordinary citizens to speak up, but on the lawyers we need to help us.

To all those who have already contributed to my fundraiser, THANK YOU! And if anyone else would care to make a donation to help erase the last $1500 of my debt, please click HERE.

With respect and thanks,

Editor's Notes:
 
*Laura Gauger is a member of the Wisconsin Resources Protection Council (WRPC) and the Center of Biological Diversity (her co-plaintiffs in the Flambeau Mine lawsuit). Ms. Gauger is formerly a resident of Spooner, Wis., and currently resides in Duluth, Minn.

For background on the Flambeau Mine Clean Water Act case, see our Jan. 25, 2011, article, "Updated: Lawsuit filed against Kennecott subsidiary for water pollution at Flambeau Mine site" and our July 25, 2012, article, "Court: Flambeau Mining Company violated Clean Water Act."

Furry Friends Fall Festival to raise funds for K-SNAG Sept. 28

HOUGHTON -- Copper Country Veterinary Clinic will be hosting Furry Friends Fall Festival -- a fund-raising event for K-SNAG (Keweenaw Spay Neuter Assistance Group) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Clinic on Sharon Ave., in Houghton.

Poster courtesy Keweenaw Spay Neuter Assistance Group.

K-SNAG is a group of volunteers who raise money to spay, neuter and rescue local animals. It is strictly run on donations from the public and gets no state or federal funding at all.

The original purpose of K-SNAG was to assist area residents with the cost of spaying/neutering their pets in an effort to reduce the number of unwanted animals in our area. When people learned that this was an animal welfare organization, K-SNAG began to get calls from people needing help with stray animals, and that is how they began their rescue program.

K-SNAG is an all-volunteer organization that mainly relies on fundraisers to raise money for vet bills. Out of the 103 animals helped by K-SNAG in 2012, all but 20 were adopted. Currently, there are at least 22 cats waiting for a home. These cats are currently in the care of K-SNAG volunteers. To date, since the organization was founded, they have rescued hundreds of animals and helped to spay/neuter about 1,400.

There will be a multitude of fun events at the Furry Friends Fall Festival including the following: raffles, roulette wheel, dress like a doctor/pet photo station, cut-out posing booth, teddy bear surgery (bring in a teddy that needs surgery!), coloring station for young children, food and drinks, bake sale, face painting, t-shirts, outdoor events with prizes.

Some events will have a nominal charge, some are donation based and some are free!

Visit the K-SNAG Facebook page for more information.

Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club invites volunteers to trail brushing party Sept. 27

Gromit the Trail Dog supervises trail clearing on Maasto Hiihto Trails earlier this week. She invites Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club members and friends to help with trail brushing tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 27. Visit Gromit's blog for more photos of her trail adventures (and photos of the Parade of Nations!). (Photo © and courtesy Arlyn and Sandy Aronson)*

HANCOCK -- Keweenaw Nordic Ski Club will hold a trail brushing party TOMORROW, Saturday, Sept. 27, on Maasto Hiihto/Churning Rapids ski trails. Meet at Tomasi trailhead at 9 a.m. Wear sturdy footwear and gloves, bring water and whatever food you need. Stay as long or as little as you like/can. Tools will be supplied or bring your own.

Please email Jay Green at jbgreen45@charter.net or call 906-487-5411 to let him know you are coming so enough tools will be brought to the trailhead. Questions? Call or email Jay.

* Editor's Note: 
Grant Fenner reports, "Gromit is featured on page RG17 in the November issue of Lake Superior Magazine in the magazine's Lake Superior Recreation section under the heading of "X-Country Skiing for Dogs. There you go, Gromit!"

Fourth Thursday in History: "Creating the Torch Lake Industrial District and Its Environment" TONIGHT in Lake Linden

CALUMET -- It might not seem like it today, but the Torch Lake shoreline between Lake Linden and Mason was once the largest industrial site in the Keweenaw copper district. Enormous powerhouses, stamp mills, and smelters lined the waterfront, and the lake bustled with ships delivering coal and taking copper to market. Processing mined rock, reclaiming copper-rich stamp sands from the lake and from scrap metals, and experimenting with new copper oxide products consumed the attention of the Calumet and Hecla and Quincy mining companies in their later years.

Although many of the buildings, docks, and other outward signs of industry are gone, copper production left a lasting mark on the Torch Lake area. Join Carol MacLennan, anthropology professor at Michigan Tech, as she surveys the history of Torch Lake’s shoreline and explores its environmental consequences.

The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. TONIGHT, Thursday Sept. 25, 2014. It will be held in the Lake Linden-Hubbell High School Auditorium, located at 601 Calumet Avenue in Lake Linden, Michigan. The event is free and open to the public.

The Fourth Thursday in History series arranges public presentations on important aspects of Copper Country and regional history, including techniques for historic preservation. Presentations are scheduled in venues throughout the Keweenaw Peninsula, particularly at historic sites associated with specific topics. They are free and open to the public.

For further information, including specific directions to this event, contact Keweenaw National Historical Park at (906) 337-3168 or check the web at www.nps.gov/kewe.

"Tatu Vuorio: Alchemy" exhibit opens at Finlandia Gallery; reception Sept. 25

Nomad, by Tatu Vuorio. Bronze, mirror and wood, 4 x 16 x 21cm, 2014. (Photos courtesy Finlandia University Gallery)

HANCOCK -- "Tatu Vuorio: Alchemy" is on display at the Finlandia University Gallery, located in the Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock, through October 18, 2014.

An opening reception at the gallery will take place from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. TONIGHT, Thursday, Sept. 25. Dr. Alexandra Morrison, Michigan Tech visiting assistant professor of philosophy, will present a talk on art and philosophy beginning at 7:15 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

In a series of works titled "Alchemy," Finnish artist Tatu Vuorio explores the ideas of existentialism. Small in stature and poetic in nature, Vuorio’s work asks big questions. How should we live each day? How do our actions of today affect tomorrow? How does coincidence drive existence? How does the inevitability of death affect the way we live our life? Vuorio’s lyrical and sensuous work asks us to pause, reflect and question the most meaningful and most undefined qualities of human life.

Drawing from abstract, figurative and conceptual traditions, Vuorio’s work experiments with technique and material, combining painting, sculpture, jewellery and installation.

"As a creative person I have not experienced the need to focus on a particular method," says Vuorio. "I find using a variety of techniques, materials and approaches to address my inspiration creates the most dynamic meaningfulness."

Every cloud has a silver lining, by Tatu Vuorio. Mdf, aluminium,concrete, sterling silver, 4 x 22 x 22, 2014.

"The key thing of making art has been a curiosity and interest in new issues," Vuorio notes.

Using intuition and experimentation, Vuorio explores the theme of human existence, with mythology of the alchemist tradition and philosophy integral to his work.

Vuorio believes that to create something new, an artist must have an understanding of the history of artistic pursuits, including materials and working techniques. It is by experimenting and stretching this historical knowledge, and combining it with the courage to explore, that Vuorio creates work -- work that sometimes even takes him by surprise.

Vuorio received a Master of Arts in Applied Art and Design from Aalto-University of Art and Design and a Bachelor of Design in Applied Art/Jewellery and Object Design from Lahti University of Applied Sciences, Institute of Design. He is currently a Jewelry design teacher at IJKK Järvenpää. He has also taught courses in Painting and Sculpture.

His work has been exhibited widely in Finland and he was the Association of Finnish Sculptors "Artist of the Month" in January 2014. 

He has received grants from the City of Espoo, the Arts Council of Finland (2013, 2014) and the Aune and Mauri Riuttu’s foundation, among others.

The Finlandia University Gallery is in the Finnish American Heritage Center, 435 Quincy Street, Hancock. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment.

For more information, call 906-487-7500.

Carnegie Museum to host monthly Keweenaw Natural History Seminars beginning Sept. 30

HOUGHTON -- The Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw (Houghton) will host Monthly Seminars about our local landscape on the third Tuesday of each month beginning Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2014, through Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in the Community Room, downstairs at the Carnegie Museum. The museum opens at 6:30 p.m. for refreshments and introductions; a lecture and discussion will be from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Dr. William Rose, Michigan Tech professor emeritus, Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences and organizer of these Keweenaw Natural History Seminars, will present the inaugural lecture, "Geoelements of the Keweenaw and Isle Royale," on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Dr. William Rose talks about Keweenaw geology at a beach near Point Isabelle on Lake Superior during one of his July Geo-tours.* (Photo by Keweenaw Now)

"Isle Royale and the Keweenaw share almost identical geology, but have very different human occupation," Rose says. "Geoheritage is about how geology and earth science guide people's lives. Geoheritage is stronger here than almost all places. In spite of this, it is hard for most residents to describe how this works. For Keweenaw and Isle Royale there are five main elements of geoheritage. They can be described simply by five words:  Lavas, Sandstones, Fault, Glaciers and the big Lake. In this lecture I will describe how these five geoelements affect all of our lives here."

Rose has  developed a website which provides extensive basic documentation on Keweenaw Geoheritage. To reach that website, click here.

"The Keweenaw is very special, and it guides our lives," Rose notes. "The connection we feel is strongly influenced by our natural history, as well as our cultural history. In exploring our region’s natural history, we will ask, 'What are the elements of Keweenaw Natural History?' and 'How can the community discuss, participate and celebrate these elements?'"

Other Seminars in the series this fall include "The (un)natural history of Huron Creek, a working stream on the Keweenaw Peninsula" (Oct. 21) by Dr. Alex Mayer, Michigan Tech professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering; "Lake Superior’s natural history and future" (Nov. 18), with Dr. Sarah Green, Michigan Tech professor, Chemistry; and "Animal Elements of Keweenaw and Isle Royale" (Dec. 16) by Dr. Rolf Peterson, Michigan Tech research professor, School of Forest Resources and  Environmental Science.

Click here to read more about the Carnegie Museum seminar series.

* Editor's Note: Watch for an article on the July 25-26 Jacobsville Sandstone Geo-tour -- coming soon.

Finlandia to host 16th annual Sibelius Academy Music Festival

HANCOCK -- The 16th annual Sibelius Academy Music Festival will be presented by Finlandia University from Sunday, Sept. 21, to Friday, Sept. 26, 2014, in Chicago, Hancock, and Calumet.

This year's festival musicians will feature classical pianist, Kristina Annamukhamedova, whose repertoire will feature the works of Beethoven, Schumann, Chopin and Sibelius, and a female a cappella vocal group, Ensemble Norma, whose music straddles folk, pop and jazz.

The festival's western Upper Peninsula series of concerts and events begins at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23. Norma Ensemble will perform at The Bluffs in Houghton. A free Meet the Musicians event will be presented at 7 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage Center, Hancock. The musicians will discuss their lives as musicians, and present informal performances.

A special classical piano concert will be scheduled at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Hancock.

Also on Wednesday, Sept. 24, a folk dance, led by professional folk dancing instructors,  will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage Center. Oren Tikkanen and friends will provide the music and Eero and Rosann Angeli will lead the dancing. Admission is $10. Finlandia students attend free. Light refreshments will be provided.

The grand finale festival concert is at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26, at the Calumet Theatre, Calumet, Mich., with all musicians giving full-length performances.  Tickets are $15; $5 for students; Finlandia students attend free.

For additional details and ticket information, call 906-487-7250 or visit www.finlandia.edu/sibelius.

Mobile food pantry available in Hancock Sept. 18

HANCOCK -- Finlandia University Campus Ministry and Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank are working together to bring a mobile food pantry to Hancock at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18, in the parking lot of Old Main on Finlandia’s campus. It is hoped this will be a regularly occurring opportunity.

"We know there are people in need in our community, and we’re happy to help our neighbors in any way we can," said Soren Schmidt, campus pastor at Finlandia.

The food pantry will be available with no questions asked. Volunteers from throughout the Finlandia University community will be on hand to help distribute food.

There will be 15,000 pounds of food available delivered in a refrigerated truck. The food should serve up to 300 families, and will be available on a first-come first-serve basis.

To volunteer at the mobile food pantry, or to learn more about the event, contact Soren Schmidt at soren.schmidt@finlandia.edu, or 906-487-7239. Tentatively the next planned mobile food pantry will be mid-to-late December.

Portage Library Storytime Schedule begins Sept. 17

HOUGHTON -- Storytime for the school year begins on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Portage Lake District Library and will be held every Wednesday and Thursday from 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Young children are invited to come for stories, craft projects, occasional music, and lots of fun. Pre-registration is not required.

Storytime will also be held on the first and third Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. - 12 noon beginning Sept. 20 and will be presented by the Houghton High School Key Club.

During inclement weather, Storytimes will follow school closings. For Saturday programs, please call the library to check for cancellations.

Children are also encouraged to use the Children’s Listening Center at the library. Music, foreign languages, and stories on CDs are available for use during their visits to the library. Up to four people at a time can use the equipment, including parents who want to help their children learn another language or simply enjoy music or a good book together. Please ask a librarian to help you get started.

All library programs are free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl.org.

MTU offers computer help for beginners at Portage Library

Students from the Computer Science Department at Michigan Tech are providing free tutoring at the Portage Lake District Library for beginning computer users. These computer help sessions with individual tutors are held every Friday from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. throughout the academic year except on days when Michigan Tech is not in session.

"Online at the Library: Help for Beginning Computer Users" will show participants how to use the internet to keep in touch with people, share pictures and letters, find information, solve computer problems, and much more. Tutors will help each participant with his or her own particular needs. People may attend as many of the sessions as they wish, and those who have laptops may bring them.

Library programs are free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl.org.

Calumet Art Center to offer classes beginning September, October

CALUMET -- Calumet Art Center is offering several classes beginning in September and October. Pre-registration and payment are required for all classes. Each class is open for registration until it fills.

Here is the schedule:

Twining Class

Students will create an 18” x 13” twined rug using recycled wool. Twining is an ancient form of weaving which is done on a portable loom. The rug will be completed at the last class session.

Class Dates: Sept. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8 and again on Oct. 29, Nov. 5 and 12.  Class Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Class Fee: $65. Materials Fee: $20.

Leather Class

Students will make a pouch using soft, tanned deerskin, a Glover’s needle, and various stitches while learning to make the best use of material. Embellish with beads, draw designs with a heated steel rod (similar to wood burning). You may also bring your own materials. If time permits, we will also make a fetish. These pouches can be used to hold many things such as scissors, stones, tobacco or items that are special to you.

Class Dates: Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18. Class Time: 10 a.m. - Noon. Class Fee: $135.   Materials Fee: $65.  

Fun with Clay Class

This is an intermediate class. Experience the processes of hand building, texturing and the use of terra sigillata.

Class Dates: Sept. 23, 25, 30, Oct. 2, 7, 9. Class Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Class Fee: $145. Materials Fee: $40. Firing Fee: $20.

Lampwork Bead Class

Students will be provided detailed instruction about the tools and methods used to manipulate hot glass in the flame of a torch. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, each student will use age-old techniques to create wound glass beads with a variety of shapes and patterns.

This is a 12 hour class split between two days. There will be an hour for lunch, so plan on bringing a brown bag lunch as well as something to drink. Each student must bring his/her own didymium safety glasses. This class is limited to ten students, and the age group is 16 and up. Register early.

Class Dates: October 25, 26. Class Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Class Fee: $135. Materials Fee: $35.

To register call the Calumet Art Center at 906-934-2228. Visit calumetartcenter.com for more information.

Public invited to Community Visioning Meeting for Saving Energy Sept. 17

HOUGHTON -- The Houghton Energy Efficiency Team (HEET) invites the public to attend a Community Visioning Meeting for Saving Energy -- to be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. this Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Finnish American Center, 435 Quincy St.,  Hancock.

The program will start promptly at 6:30 p.m. In addition to exhibits, the program will include a presentation on Bio-energy in Finland, roundtable discussions and more.

The goal of the meeting is to develop a future energy vision. The meeting will offer the opportunity to discuss broad, community-level strategies to promote energy savings.

Why Come?
1- Our energy costs are among the highest in the nation and we need to work together to figure out ways to save.
2- Houghton County could win a $5 million dollar prize
3- You could win great energy-efficient door prizes!

Please join this team effort and invite your friends! This meeting is free and open to all.

Dianda introduces resolution to support energy generation in U.P.

LANSING -- State Representative Scott Dianda (D-Calumet) recently introduced a resolution that encourages legislative support for the construction of new electricity generating facilities in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Currently, U.P. residents are paying increasingly large sums to keep the Presque Isle Power Plant (PIPP) -- a coal-fired plant in Marquette -- open and operating. With a capacity of more than 400 megawatts, the PIPP is the region’s largest energy supplier north of Green Bay, Wis.

"The cost of keeping the PIPP operating in our region is above and beyond what our residents can afford, and its closure is imminent," said Dianda. "Without the creation of a new, more efficient power source once the PIPP is shut down, the U.P. will be forced to rely on the construction of transmission lines to import power from Wisconsin. This is an expensive option that will inhibit economic growth, and will likely fail to meet the region’s future demand for capacity."

Dianda’s resolution recommends investment in natural gas, renewable energy and distributed generation, stating that natural gas, solar, wind and small, localized electric facilities are more reliable, and could be more cost-effective than the alternative option of building transmission lines across state borders.

"The creation of new energy facilities in the U.P. will keep our energy costs in check, and spur economic growth in our region by creating a multitude of jobs," Dianda said. "I am hopeful that my fellow legislators will see the importance of this resolution and support the growth of the U.P.’s energy sector. I also hope that Michigan’s energy companies will recognize the opportunity for growth in our region and begin the process of setting up shop in the U.P."

Guest editorial: How to avoid wolf-dog conflicts

By Nancy Warren*

Owning a pet requires responsibility which includes doing everything possible to keep it from harm. Sometimes bad things happen. Forget to close a gate and your pet can escape, become lost or get struck by a car.

So far this year in the Upper Peninsula, wolves have killed eight dogs and injured one. These were not dogs near residences or dogs that escaped yards; they were hounds either hunting or training to hunt bears and other wildlife. Some of the dogs were released at night when wolves hunt. Some dogs wore GPS tracking collars and were one-half mile or more away from the handler.

DNR records show there is little correlation between the total wolf population and attacks on hounds. In 2003, when there were 321 wolves in the U.P., there were 11 attacks on dogs.

Each of the dogs killed or injured in 2014 was released into known wolf pack territories where prior attacks on dogs had occurred. Further, each of these attacks took place during the month of August while wolves were still at rendezvous sites.

Rendezvous sites are the home sites used by wolves after the denning period and after the pups are weaned. These gathering sites are mostly used from mid-June until late September and are often associated with a food source. It is during this time that wolves are most aggressive toward strange wolves and dogs, as the pups are still dependent upon the pack.

As with other wild canids, wolves are territorial and will defend their territories from other wolves, coyotes and dogs. They perceive a pack of dogs yowling and barking through their territory as a threat and will attack other predators that get too close.

Bear baiting, beginning in early August, poses another risk to hunting dogs. Current regulations allow bear hunters and guides to bait with unlimited amounts of meat, meat products, dog food, fish products, cat food and a variety of bakery products including cooked and commercially processed materials, pie fillings and yogurts used in bakery products. Wolves are attracted to these bait piles and research shows they will guard this food source from intruders.

Michigan DNR has posted to its website a list of wolf/dog encounters dating back to 2012, along with the areas where conflicts have occurred.

No one is questioning anyone’s right to use dogs for training or hunting game. But, time and time again, hounders have ignored the warning signs and chose to release their dogs, in known problem areas, placing their dogs at risk. Then, when something bad happens, they cry wolf.

*Editor's Notes:

Nancy Warren, author of this article, is National Wolfwatcher Coalition Great Lakes Regional director. Inset photo of Nancy Warren by Allan Baker for Keweenaw Now.

If you are interested in this issue or other local issues involving wildlife, you may wish to attend the Sept. 15 meeting of the Department of Natural Resources’ Western Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council (CAC) on the campus of Michigan Technological University in Houghton. The meeting will take place in the Memorial Union Building, Room A2.  Beginning at 5:30 p.m. EDT (4:30 p.m. CDT), DNR staff will present division reports on current DNR projects and business and answer questions from council members and the public. The council meeting will immediately follow from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT (5 p.m. -7 p.m. CDT). Click here for more details.

Portage Library to host Gluten-Free Recipe Exchange Sept. 15

HOUGHTON -- Regular meetings of the Gluten-Free Recipe Exchange are held on the 3rd Monday of each month, September through May, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Portage Lake District Library. The first meeting for this school year will be held on Monday, Sept. 15. Everyone is invited to participate.

Each month features a different type of food, and September’s meeting will be a smorgasbord of foods in all categories. Participants are welcome to bring their favorite dish, salad, dessert or snack for sampling and are encouraged to share their recipes. Copies of the recipes will be made at the library. Please list all ingredients used in making foods that are shared at these meetings and identify the brand names of the gluten-free ingredients. Bringing food is not a requirement for attendance.

Participants are also encouraged to bring their former favorite recipes that they want help converting to gluten-free. Help will be available.

The Gluten-Free Recipe Exchange is organized by and for those who are interested in or required to follow a gluten-free diet. Gluten-free eating requires the avoidance of all wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Most people find it challenging at first, but are excited to find recipes and foods that are fun and easy to make and tasty to eat. The Gluten-Free Recipe Exchange is an opportunity to share those great recipes and learn from others. Everyone who is interested in learning more about gluten-free eating is encouraged to attend.

This program is free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the library at 482-4570 or visit www.pldl.org.

DNR’s Western Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council to meet Sept. 15 in Houghton

HOUGHTON -- The Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Western Upper Peninsula Citizens' Advisory Council (CAC) will meet on Monday, Sept. 15, on the campus of Michigan Technological University in Houghton. The meeting will take place in the Memorial Union Building, Room A2.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m. EDT (4:30 p.m. CDT), DNR staff will present division reports on current DNR projects and business and answer questions from council members and the public. The council meeting will immediately follow from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT (5 p.m. -7 p.m. CDT).

 Agenda items include:

 ∙ Trail proposal presentation, Houghton Keweenaw County Recreation Authority
 ∙ Update on Wildlife Division habitat improvement projects
 ∙ Deer season forecast
 ∙ Trapping regulations on commercial forest land
 ∙ Subcommittee reports
 ∙ Public comment (for public comment instructions, see www.michigan.gov/upcac)

The Eastern Upper Peninsula and Western Upper Peninsula CACs are designed to advise the DNR on regional programs and policies; identify areas in which the department can be more effective and responsive; and offer insight and guidance from members’ own experiences and constituencies.

The council members represent a wide variety of natural resource and recreation stakeholders and interest groups. Agenda items are set by the council members, and council recommendations are forwarded to the DNR for consideration.

CAC meetings are open to the public. If you would like to be considered as a future CAC member, please fill out the nomination form found on the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/upcac. For more information, contact DNR Upper Peninsula Regional Coordinator Stacy Haughey at 906-228-6561.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.