TAKE ACTION NOW to protect Michigan, Wisconsin waters from sulfide mining: Deadline August 20

The beautiful Menominee River flows between Michigan and Wisconsin. It is threatened by the Back 40 sulfide mine proposed by Aquila/GORO. (File photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

Aquila/GORO has proposed metallic lease renewal for areas located in close proximity to the Little Shakey Creek, Shakey River, and Shakey Lakes County Park in Menominee County, Michigan. You can help protect the Menominee River from a proposed open-pit metal mine by signing a letter to the Michigan DNR provided online by Freshwater Future.  

Freshwater Future opposes the lease renewal because the group believes open pit mines should never be located in sulfide bearing rock, particularly near a source of public drinking water. The technique exposes the entire mine to air and water, and thus the production of toxic acid mine drainage.
    
The Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River has worked tirelessly for years to protect the Menominee River from the proposed Back 40 open pit metal mine. Historically, all mining operations involving sulfide-bearing rock have led to significant water pollution and waste disposal issues. After the mining company’s wetland permit was denied by regulators, it forced them to propose a different location for the pit to place mining waste. The new location, 400 acres adjacent to the Shakey River, a tributary of the Menominee River, requires a metallic minerals lease renewal from the State of Michigan. You can help! Submit a public comment urging the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to deny this lease renewal request TODAY. The public comment period ends on Sunday, August 20. Click here for a link to the sample letter.

You can also join the Coalition to SAVE The Menominee River for their third annual Water Celebration on Saturday, September 16! Come to Stephenson Island from noon - 7 p.m. for raffles, contests, craft shows, bake sales, live music, and more activities! 

Join the Coalition to SAVE the MeNOMINEe River at their Water Celebration on Stephenson Island, Marinette, Wis., on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023. Click here for larger version of poster. (Poster courtesy Coalition to SAVE the MeNOMINEe River)

Citizens For a Safe and Clean Lake Superior hires new Outreach Director

Jane Fitkin, new Director of Outreach and Communications for Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior (CSCLS). (Photo courtesy CSCLS)

MARQUETTE -- Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior (CSCLS) is pleased to welcome Jane Fitkin as their new Director of Outreach and Communications.

A recent Northern Michigan University (NMU) graduate with highest honors in Environmental Studies and Sustainability, she has led numerous local environmental efforts including groups like the Marquette Climbers’ Co-op and NMU Conservation Crew and has advocated with local government planning officials for sustainable infrastructure projects.

Having lived in Marquette for the past four years, Fitkin has developed a strong connection to the local community and environment and sees unnecessary industrial development, like the planned rocket launch site near Thoneys Point, in
Powell Township just 10 miles north of Marquette, as a serious threat.

"We live on the shoreline of the world’s largest freshwater body. Lake Superior is immeasurably important to our way of life, and promoting heavy industry right on the lakeshore is a serious threat to all of us," Fitkin said. "I'm excited to join this effort to protect our lake for all of us."

This Lake Superior shoreline view shows the pretty sandstone cliffs at the proposed Granot Loma/Thoneys Point launch area. (File photo courtesy Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior)

According to Dennis Ferraro, president of CSCLS, Fitkin will be assisting with the citizen petition effort in Powell Township to amend zoning regulations to ban spaceports and rocket launches in the township, as well as carrying out various other community events.

"Jane is a great asset to our current campaign here at CSCLS and she brings the leadership, policy and communication skills to broaden our future efforts to protect our beautiful Freshwater Coast," Ferraro said.

The mission of Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior is to protect and improve the precious environmental resource of the coastal habitat, shoreline and fresh water of Lake Superior and its watershed in Marquette County; to oppose individual, corporate, or governmental action which may jeopardize that resource; and to encourage community action to preserve the quality of life provided by this Lake Superior Coastline environment for generations to come.

Eisenhower Dance Detroit to offer U.P. RootEDD program, contemporary dance performances August 13-19

This week the Rozsa Center welcomes Eisenhower Dance Detroit, offering the public -- ages 14 and above -- a local program of dancing, grounding and self-care from Sunday, August 13, to Saturday, August 19. (Poster courtesy Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts)

HOUGHTON -- The Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts will present Eisenhower Dance Detroit for U.P. RootEDD, a family friendly summer vacation experience during the week of Aug. 13-19. These professional contemporary dancers will also give two performances on the Rozsa stage -- at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, and at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.

Find out about the program of dancing, grounding and self-care at 9 a.m. Sunday in the Rozsa. The program, for ages 14 and above, will feature the following:

• Classes in a variety of styles and disciplines
• Ballet, contemporary, jazz, partnering, contemporary ballet, alignment, EDD repertory, choreography, etc.
• Beach yoga, outdoor ropes courses, hikes, paddle boarding, guided improvisation by campfire, journaling and so much more!
• Opportunities and free time to explore the beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Eisenhower Dance Detroit is "A professional repertory company that, through outstanding performances and educational services, strives to deepen the understanding and appreciation of contemporary dance regionally, nationally, and internationally and to reflect on and explore issues of social significance."

U.P.ROOTEDD OPENING PERFORMANCE

Eisenhower Dance Detroit dancers. (Photo courtesy Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts)

General admission tickets are available for an opening performance at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, in the Rozsa. This will be a short performance by the professional contemporary dancers of Eisenhower Dance Detroit with a Q and A immediately following -- kicking off a week-long summer dance training and retreat experience! Click here for tickets.

U.P.ROOTEDD CULMINATING PERFORMANCE

A culminating performance by the U.P.RootEDD participants with a feature performance by Eisenhower Dance Detroit will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, in the Rozsa. General seating and open to the public. Click here for tickets.

Rozsa Introduces "Pay As You’re Able" Ticketing for its Upcoming Season

The Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, the Michigan Tech Visual and Performing Arts Department, and Visit Keweenaw are thrilled to announce the launch of Pay As You're Able Ticketing for the upcoming Rozsa season, including all Presenting Series events. After successful testing and positive audience feedback last year, the Rozsa is excited to extend this innovative ticketing structure to its entire season, making it easier for everyone in the community to experience the magic of live performances.

Pay As You're Able Ticketing is designed to remove financial barriers and promote greater accessibility to the performing arts. The program allows guests to pay what they can afford
for their tickets, enabling them to choose from various pricing options based on their circumstances.

Pay As You’re Able Presenting Series tickets go on sale August 15, 2023, and can be purchased online at tickets.mtu.edu, by phone at 906-487-1906, or at the Rozsa Box Office. See Tech Today, Aug. 11, 2023, for details.

Estivant Pines 50th Anniversary: Open for traffic after improvement project

Explore the stunning and remote Estivant Pines Sanctuary in the Keweenaw, near Copper Harbor. (Photo courtesy Visit Keweenaw)

UPDATE: The Estivant Pines will celebrate its improvements and legacy with a trail rededication and 50th anniversary celebration from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27. The Michigan Nature Association looks forward to welcoming the public to the pines and teaching about the forest.

THE KEWEENAW, Michigan (July 11, 2023) -- The Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary trail is open now with an upgraded experience for adventurers -- in time for its 50th anniversary. The trail was closed briefly while Rock Solid Trail Contracting made improvements with the Michigan Nature Association (MNA), owner of the Sanctuary since 1973.*

"When boardwalks age, they create a lot of upkeep work and in the process become unsafe as they degrade and become slippery when wet," said Nancy Leonard, Michigan Nature Association conservation coordinator. "Visitation to the Estivant Pines includes folks of all ages and of varying hiking abilities. Slippery board walks and steep grades [were] a hindrance to some. Looking forward to the 50th anniversary of the Pines, we realized that it was time to address these issues and to make an upgrade [to] the core trail."

Leonard explains Rock Solid Trail Contracting is an industry leader for trail work of this scale. Michigan Nature Association (MNA) was excited to enter an agreement with Rock Solid on the project. Leonard says building better on the Pines will bring a greater accessibility level for hikers and one that requires less maintenance over time.

"This year’s project centers upon the core trail," said Leonard. "The two loops, Memorial and Cathedral, will remain the same. Boardwalks are being removed and raised gravel tread will be laid in place. Culverts will be added to channel the water from natural seeps and away from the trail. A section of the lower trail that includes a steep grade will be replaced by a new trail bed nearby that will lessen the grade. An accessible side spur will lead to an area of meditation beneath a grand old pine."

According to MNA's Web site, the 570.5 acre sanctuary protects one of the last old-growth white pine stands in Michigan. Some of the trees are more than 125 feet tall and date back 300 years. The two loop trails intersect, offering a 2.5 mile hike.

The improved trail is open to traffic now.

"Most major improvements are indeed completed; however, the remaining task of applying the hard-packed gravel tread will be completed later this summer," Leonard added. "In the meantime, hikers are enjoying the trail as we speak."

How to get there:

The sanctuary is located in Keweenaw County. Follow US 41 east through Copper Harbor. From US 41, turn right onto 2nd Street at the Community Center and sign for Manganese Lake.
Follow 2nd Street (also called Manganese Road) for 1.2 miles and then turn left onto Clark Mine Road. Travel 1.2 miles and turn right onto Burma Road. Travel another .5 miles on Burma Rd. to the trailhead and parking area. For additional information, contact the MNA office at (866) 223-2231.**

A celebration of the pines is planned for this summer (date to be announced). Make sure to check out the best hikes like Estivant Pines when you’re in the Keweenaw.

Notes: 

* For MNA's details about the Estivant Pines Sanctuary, click here.

** For more photos and a map, click here.

Menominee cultural site listed on National Register of Historic Places

From: Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin
June 23, 2023

Pictured here within a Menominee ceremonial dance ring, from left, are Archaeologist Dr. David Overstreet, Menominee Tribal Historic Preservation Director David "Nahwahquaw" Grignon, Tribal member Tony Brown, and Menominee High School students Kahkamahot Waupekenay, Glen Miller, Lupe Corn, Lois Turney, and Aaliyah Webster, with their teacher, Dawn Wilber. Click here for larger photo. (Photo courtesy Menominee Tribe)

KESHENA, WI -- The Menominee Tribe is extremely happy to learn that its nomination to have the Sixty Islands or Anaem Omot (Dogs Belly) area in Wisconsin and Michigan be added to the National Register of Historic Places was approved. This recognizes critical burial and historic sites at the place of the Menominee Tribe's origin.

Chairwoman Gena Kakkak was overwhelmed with gratitude, saying, "We are so very thankful to the National, Park Service for including this site on the National Register of Historic Places. Our ancestors can now rest better in their places of burial. Our original spiritual and ceremonial grounds are recognized and our children can continue to learn and find their heritage in our places of origin."

Tribal Historic Preservation Director David Grignon called this a historic day for the Menominee people. Grignon has worked for years with archaeologist David Overstreet to achieve the historic preservation nomination in both Wisconsin and Michigan.*

"It was a long time in coming," Grignon said, "but now our sacred sites, mounds and historic sites on the Menominee River at Sixty Islands are recognized."

During the July 23, 2022, Water Festival, held by the Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River on Stephenson Island in Marinette, Wis., Menominee Tribal Historic Preservation Director David Grignon speaks about protection for the Menominee cultural resources located near the Menominee River and the Tribe's origins on the banks of the River. (File photo © and courtesy Karen Slattery)*

Menominee Tribal member Dawn Wilber, who teaches Menominee culture and language at Menominee High School in Keshena, Wis., and who has co-organized four annual Menominee Canoe Trips to call attention to the need to protect both the sacred sites and the river, commented on the news of this historic listing.**

"We just cannot say thank you enough because everything was done in the name of preserving the culture, historical and sacred sites of the Menominee people and our most beloved and beautiful Menominee River!" Wilber writes. "Our people now and our people that are yet to come are so grateful and will be so grateful for all these actions. It is the most amazing news that we’ve heard in a long, long time."

Dawn Wilber is pictured here with her nieces and nephews, who attended, along with other students, Wilber's June 29, 2022, Ancient Tour of Menominee sacred sites. The tour preceded the fourth annual Menominee Canoe Trip. (File photo © and courtesy Dawn Wilber)**

The Anaem Omot or Sixty Islands area of the Menominee River is located about 16 miles east of Stephenson, Michigan. Settlement remains date back roughly 10,000 years to the last Ice Age.

The tribe has worked for several years to advocate for this listing and to protect the culturally sensitive areas that include burial mounds, garden beds and ceremonial sites. Menominee tribal members and advocacy groups remain connected to this area for cultural purposes.

Burial mound near the Menominee River, not far from the proposed Back 40 mine site. (Keweenaw Now file photo)

One important need for this protection is the threat posed by the proposed Back 40 sulfide mine for gold, copper, zinc and lead -- which could be built very close to the river and the sacred sites. 

The 5th Annual Menominee Canoe Trip, June 29 to July 3, 2023, will again offer participants an opportunity to canoe on this beautiful river to call attention to the dangers of potential sulfide mining. This year it will also be an occasion to celebrate the fact that the Sixty Islands cultural sites are now approved for the National Register of Historic Places.

Early morning, peaceful scenic view of the Menominee River just before the canoe launch on Day 2 of last year's Canoe Trip. (File photo © and courtesy Wayne Swett)

The Menominee Tribe, having no migration story, are the original people of this land from time memorial. For more information on the Menominee Tribe visit their Web site: https://www.menominee-nsn.gov/

Editor's Notes:

* For background on the opposition to the Back 40 Mine and more on David Grignon's talk, see the Keweenaw Now Sept. 8, 2022, article, "Coalition to SAVE the Menominee River holds Water Celebration featuring Native, non-Native speakers on Back 40 mining project."

** See also the July 14, 2022, Keweenaw Now article, "Water protectors complete 4th Annual Menominee on Menominee Canoe Trip against threat of Back 40 mining project."

Eighth Grader stuns MPSC at meeting on Line 5 proposed tunnel under Straits of Mackinac

This map shows the location of the existing Line 5 dual pipelines -- dotted lines to the west of the Mackinac Bridge (at right, in red) between St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, Michigan. Enbridge hopes to replace the 70-year-old Line 5 with a pipeline inside a tunnel under the lakebed of the Straits. (Image courtesy US Army Corps of Engineers) 

From Oil and Water Don't Mix
Posted on their Web site June 13, 2023
Shared with permission

The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) staff recently recommended that the commissioners approve the permit to place the Enbridge Line 5 crude oil pipeline into a tunnel through the Great Lakes. But then eighth grader Anna Stuntz stepped up to the mic.

Oil and Water Don't Mix -- a group of organizations and citizens across Michigan working to keep oil out of the Great Lakes and spur a transition to a clean energy economy -- organized the public to attend the June 9, 2023, MPSC meeting to let the commissioners know what they think of the plan to create new fossil fuel infrastructure through the Great Lakes. Anna framed a stunning argument for a reason to deny the permit:

Anna Stuntz addresses the Michigan Public Service Commission with a poem that expresses her opposition to the Line 5 pipelines and Enbridge's plan for a tunnel under the Straits. (Video courtesy Oil and Water Don't Mix)

CLICK HERE to join Anna and send a message to the MPSC: NO OIL TUNNEL.

You can also sign a petition against the tunnel to Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Legislature HERE.

Editor's Note:

See this info from a tunnel expert: "Red Flags: Proposed Great Lakes Tunnel Project." 

For information on Line 5 from MPSC CLICK HERE.

Michigan Tech students speak on climate action at COP27 international conference in Egypt

By Kendra Lachcik*

The location of the COP27 climate change conference, Sharm El-Sheikh, is circled in red on this map. The city is located approximately 300 miles south of Cairo. (Map from Google Maps courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

Every year since the first COP (Conference of Parties) was held in Berlin, Germany in 1995, policymakers, activists, scientists, business leaders, academic professionals, and students from around the world have gathered to discuss and take action on the latest research, technologies, impacts, and solutions related to the climate crisis. "COP" is the most important decision-making body at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), comprised of representatives from nearly every country. Many global treaties related to climate change, including the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement, have been established at previous COPs. COP27, which took place November 6-18, 2022, was held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, a city located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula and on the northern coast of the Red Sea.

Michigan Tech has sent students to this conference since COP25 in 2019. This year, 12 MTU delegates, including 2 undergraduate students, 7 graduate students, 1 MTU alum, and 2 faculty members, attended the conference as observers under the Research and Independent Non-Governmental Organizations (RINGO) constituency. This is the first year that undergraduates from Michigan Tech were brought to COP27. 

Michigan Tech students, from left, Anna Kavanaugh, Kendra Lachcik, and Rose Daily at a sign outside the conference center [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Alexis Pascaris)

MTU delegates were also representing the Youth Environmental Alliance in Higher Education Network (YEAH Network), a transdisciplinary, multi-institutional global network that is a charter of the National Science Foundation. The YEAH Network seeks to educate students on climate change, give them voice on these issues, and provide them with real-world experience of collaborative, evidence-based approaches to global environmental sustainability. One way is by bringing students to COP. Michigan Tech delegates were joined by students from several other schools, including Colorado State, Colorado College, and Boston University, all attending the conference on behalf of the YEAH Network.

The primary purpose of COP is for countries from all corners of the globe to come together and negotiate new climate policy. Yet, an ever-increasing number of other activities are appearing at the conference including press conferences and pavilions that are run by specific countries or organizations. There were also several protests that took place in and outside the conference center like the one pictured below. The pavilions at COP27 were vast, with each having a full schedule of events, most of which were panel discussions. There was a seemingly endless amount of information to absorb at the conference including the importance of blue carbon, the future of environmental justice, small modular reactors (a type of nuclear fission reactor), and decarbonizing food production. Although the information was at times overwhelming, I did my best to make the most of my time at the conference, attending as many panels as I feasibly could. The pavilions and press conference rooms were where MTU delegates participated most heavily and had the opportunity to share their ideas with the world. While at the conference, MTU delegates spoke at press conferences, participated in panels at the U.S. Center pavilion, and presented an art exhibit put on by YEAH also at the U.S. Center pavilion.

Kendra at the stage of the U.S. Center Pavilion [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Anna Kavanaugh)

Another view of the U.S. Center during a talk by a NASA scientist [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

Outside the conference center protesters' signs advocate for a vegan lifestyle and for vegan governmental policy. [11/12/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Eugene Brown Agyei)

As members of the Michigan Tech delegation, Eugene Agyei, Rose Daily, Anna Kavanaugh, Alexis Pascaris, Mark Rouleau, and I attended the first week of the conference. Aritra Chakrabarty, Ayush Chutani, Kathy Huerta, Zach Hough Solomon, and Shardul Tiwari attended the second week of the conference. MTU faculty member Sarah Green, from the Chemistry department, attended both weeks. Green is heavily involved in the YEAH Network and is the primary faculty member at MTU who brings students to COP.

Anna Kavanaugh spoke at a press conference entitled "Vanderbilt University: New NSF-supported Climate Leader’s Academy" with other YEAH students from Duke University, Colorado College, Vanderbilt University. The press conference introduced the Climate Leader’s Academy, a new 2-semester program at Vanderbilt University that will bring students from many institutions together to collaborate on climate-related projects to be presented at the upcoming COP. After this, YEAH students discussed their connection to the YEAH Network and to COP as well as what motivated them to get involved. They also discussed their individual educational experiences as well as project work related to climate change. Many commented that YEAH provides a valuable communication pathway between institutions that allows for collaboration and the sharing of knowledge.

When reflecting on her experience at COP27 as a whole, Anna remarked, "I was able to collaborate with and meet some of the most inspirational people fighting for the future of our climate around the globe. Just to be clear, there is much more work to be done in every aspect of this conference; youth want (and need) more of a voice at the table, not just a seat. My time at COP27 will be something I absolutely cherish forever."

Michigan Tech student Anna Kavanaugh speaks at the press conference [11/08/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Eugene Brown Agyei)

I spoke at a press conference entitled "Monash University: YEAH Youth Dialogues on Environmental and Climate Justice" with a group of YEAH students from Monash University, Colorado State University, and Colorado College. Each student discussed their experiences with climate justice and climate action in their own lives, but specifically on their college campuses. Many reflected on what brought them to this moment, speaking at an international climate conference.

I began my speech at the press conference by stating, "I believe that climate change and anthropogenic environmental degradation are the most pressing issues facing humankind at the moment. Climate change threatens everything that we rely on to survive -- food, water, habitable land, and air. Thus, climate change affects each and every one of us in some shape or form no matter our gender, age, ethnicity, race, or socioeconomic status."

Kendra Lachcik, center, speaks at the press conference [11/09/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Rose Daily)

Rose Daily spoke on a panel at the U.S. Center entitled "Educating the Next Generation of Climate Leaders," organized by YEAH. In addition to Rose, panelists included Dan Briggs from Colorado State University, faculty member Leah Dundon from Vanderbilt University, Brandon Jones from the National Science Foundation (NSF), and Ellen Stofan from the Smithsonian. Panelists reflected on their journey in climate action and how they are empowering the next generation through their work and through various educational programs. Many expressed the need for students of all ages to be exposed to the outdoors, to nature, and to their environment in order to build a connection with it and so feel the need and responsibility to fight for it. 

When reflecting on her experience at COP27 as a whole, Rose said, "Spending a week in the Sinai desert with like-minded people from all over the world reinforced that we are out of time. We are all responsible for climate change: governments, leaders, corporations, and individuals. Now is the time to transform our talk into meaningful action."

MTU student Rose Daily, seated at far left with microphone, speaks at the panel discussion [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

Alexis Pascaris participated in a pitch competition with three other climate entrepreneurs in the hopes of receiving prize money for her start-up company, AgriSolar Consulting. Her company helps solar developers, farmers, scientists, and community organizers operationalize agrivoltaics, where solar panels and crops are incorporated together on the same plot of land. All four participants were given three minutes to "pitch" their company to the panel of judges that included representatives from several corporations who were sponsoring the pitch competition.

A period of questioning from the judges followed before moving onto the next participant. After all the pitches and questioning, the judges deliberated in a separate room to decide the winner and runner-up. Despite a very strong performance, Alexis was not chosen as the winner or runner-up but did receive some money for her participation

Reflecting on her experience at COP27 as a whole, Alexis remarked, "Attending COP27 was like swimming in a sea of collective hope. While both depressing and inspiring, one thing is for sure: 1.5 C is still alive and it’s in our hands to realize it."**

Alexis Pascaris gives her "pitch" to the judges [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

Finally, students from YEAH collaborated on the art exhibit "Voices and Visions: The Art and Science of Climate Action," which was on display at the U.S. Center pavilion. The exhibit highlighted the importance of both art and science in the fight against climate change and how both can be leveraged to make a difference. The exhibit included a compilation of photos and artwork, as well as videos that could be accessed via QR codes. Many were related to research and other academic work students were working on related to climate change and environmental issues as a whole.

The art exhibit on display at the U.S. Center pavilion [11/10/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

I had the opportunity to meet students from other institutions all across the U.S and the globe. Specifically, I collaborated with students and faculty from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, for the press conference mentioned above. It was incredible to see people from all walks of life and from virtually every country on the planet gathered in one place for the sake of fighting the climate crisis. There is a lot of work that still needs to be done, but there are also so many people committed to this fight, which is very reassuring. COP27 reinforced for me that it will take every country, every sector of the economy, and every individual to combat the climate crisis. We must be all in.

The sunrise off the coast of Sharm El-Sheikh facing east toward Saudi Arabia [11/12/22]. (Photo © and courtesy Kendra Lachcik)

Notes:

*Guest author Kendra Lachcik is a 2023 graduate of Michigan Tech University with a bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering. She is also the undergraduate winner of the  Inaugural Michigan Tech Sustainability Award for 2022 and Michigan Tech's 2023 Nicole Bloom Award for Environmental Sustainability.

For more details on COP and another perspective on COP27, see Michigan Tech delegate Aritra Chakrabarty’s guest article, "Breaking Down the Utopia of COP27," on Keweenaw Now.

**Alexis Pascaris also attended COP 26 in 2021. See her Jan. 1, 2022, guest article, "COP 26 Reflection" on Keweenaw Now.

Bad River loses another 3 feet near Line 5 Pipeline; Enbridge fires employee who questioned situation

Posted May 20, 2023, on Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative
Reprinted here in part with permission

This photo shows erosion from the Bad River increasing to just 7 feet from the center of Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline (yellow pipe). (Photo courtesy Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative)

Concerned citizens should call the Pipeline Hazardous Materials and Safety Line National Response Hotline: 800-424-8802

WCMC (Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative) received a leaked Facebook post that originated with an Enbridge employee showing that only 7 feet remain between the Bad River and the Line 5 pipeline, and stating the the employee was fired for questioning the situation.

Peter Bigboy, a Bad River Band member known to be supportive of Enbridge Line 5 and one of the first Band members to be hired by Enbridge, has been fired, according to the phone photo of his Facebook page, for questioning the loss of shoreline near the endangered length of pipe.

On May 18, 2023 the Bad River Band appeared in District Court to ask that the pipeline get shut down out of imminent safety concerns. Judge William Conley refused, saying he wanted Enbridge and Bad River to come to an agreement. He did, however, admit he has the power to do just that, and that the pipeline will eventually be shut down. At that time of the hearing on Thursday, the distance from the river to the pipeline was 11 feet, losing 4 more feet in a few days.

Enbridge confirmed at the hearing they will need a minimum of 5 days to purge the line of oil. This situation may not allow for that.

Enbridge is operating illegally on the Bad River Reservation, as Judge Conley reaffirmed in Thursday’s hearing. In November, 2022, he ruled that the multinational foreign oil company was criminally trespassing and illegally enriching themselves off the profits of their operations while trespassing.

According to Sean Quinlan of PHMSA (Pipeline Hazardous Materials and Safety Administration):

Since the Enbridge Line 5 is a PHMSA jurisdictional transmission line, I would suggest directly contacting the NRC 24-hour hotline at 1-800-424-8802. The NRC has a notification tree of required down channel reporting, and will contact state, county, local authorities, and federal authorities -- such as, the EPA and PHMSA. The PHMSA Accident Investigation Division would then be contacted and work in concert with inspectors from the Central Region to investigate the release.

Concerned citizens should call the Pipeline Hazardous Materials and Safety Line National Response Hotline 800-424-8802.

Also call Enbridge Crude Oil Pipeline emergency number (800) 858-5253.

CLICK HERE to see photos of the progression of this erosion by David Joe Bates.

Editor's Note: Thanks to the Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative for keeping us updated on this potentially disastrous situation.

Judge declares Line 5 pipeline will be shut down: "It’s just a question of when"

Bad River Band logo courtesy Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

By Barbara With and Rebecca Kemble*
Posted May 19, 2023, on Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative
Reprinted here in part with permission

At a hearing on an emergency motion filed by the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa on May 18, Western District Court Judge William Conley stated that it was only a matter of time before the 70-year-old Enbridge Line 5 crude oil pipeline that runs across the Bad River Band’s territory would be shut down....

Judge Conley said he would deliver his ruling within the next week or two. In his concluding remarks he said plainly, "There’s going to be a shutdown in this portion in the meander. It’s just a question of when."

Afterward, Bad River Chairman Mike Wiggins issued a statement:

"As a sovereign Tribal nation, we did not file this injunction for protection lightly or frivolously. We’ve watched the river live its life and do what it does as a beautiful, pristine life force within our sovereign boundaries. It’s done what we knew it would, continued to erode and pound away at the meander at a particular place where the pipeline crosses, and it’s within a point of imminent threat of blowing that particular area out and rupturing Line 5...."  CLICK HERE to read the rest of this article on Enbridge's criminal trespass on Bad River land and the recent erosion from the Line 5 pipeline, moving closer and closer to a disastrous rupture, as well as the rest of Bad River Chairman Mike Wiggins' statement following the May 18 hearing.

* Editor's Note: Guest authors Barbara With and Rebecca Kemble are journalists for the Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative.

Keweenaw Land Association requests DNR metallic mineral releases; virtual public meeting is May 23

The black dots on this map indicate the Michigan state-owned metallic minerals the Keweenaw Land Association has requested to lease -- a total of 2,721.57 acres in Baraga, Dickinson, Iron and Marquette counties. CLICK HERE for a larger map.

LANSING -- Keweenaw Land Association has requested metallic minerals leases from the state of Michigan. The 2,721.57 acres, more or less, are located within L'Anse Township, Baraga County; Breen, Felch, Norway, Sagola, Waucedah and West Branch townships, Dickinson County; Bates and Crystal Falls townships, Iron County; Humboldt and Wells townships, Marquette County; further described as: Leasable Development with Restrictions. (See list below.)

If approved by the DNR, a lease to Keweenaw Land Association, Limited, would grant the exclusive right to explore for the presence of metallic minerals in the described areas. A lease alone does not grant a lessee a right to mine.

The DNR Minerals Management Section will hold a virtual informational public meeting regarding the lease application from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EDT) on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Interested parties may join the meeting by going to
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2737429241521824094.

Based upon the necessary technology to conduct a virtual meeting and offer two-way communication for public comment, registration is required for those who desire to provide public comment during the meeting. Should you not want to provide public comment and desire to only observe the meeting anonymously, or if you do not have internet access, please use the phone option by dialing 1-631-992-3221 and using access code 236-339-288. This meeting will be recorded, and the recording will be made available to the public on the DNR website.

A multi-agency panel will respond to written questions from the public regarding the lease application during this meeting. Questions may be submitted to DNR, Minerals Management Section, P.O. Box 30452, Lansing, MI 48909, or
DNR-LeaseManagement@michigan.gov. Subject line should read: Keweenaw Land Association, Limited. Written questions received by May 16, 2023, will be addressed during the meeting; questions received after May 16, 2023, will be answered via email.

The meeting will also include a public comment period. Anyone wishing to participate in the public comment portion of the meeting will be allowed two minutes to speak.

Leasable Development with Restrictions:

T49N, R32W, Section 01, SW1/4 of NW1/4; Section 02, NE1/4 of SE1/4, SE1/4 of NE1/4; Section 19, S1/2 of SW1/4; Section 30, NE1/4 of NW1/4, NW1/4 of NE1/4, SE1/4 of NE1/4, S1/2 of SE1/4; Section 32, N1/2 of NW1/4, N1/2 of NE1/4, SE1/4 of
NE1/4. (590.48 acres m/l)

T41N, R27W, Section 05, NW1/4 of NE1/4. (40 acres m/l)

T44N, R28W, Section 32, S1/2 of SE1/4, SE1/4 of SW1/4; Section 33, SW1/4 of SW1/4. (160 acres m/l)

T40N, R29W, Section 23, SW1/4; Section 24, NE1/4 of SW1/4, S1/2 of SW1/4; Section 26, NE1/4, NW1/4. (600 acres m/l)

T44N, R29W, Section 01, S1/2 of NW1/4, NW1/4 of SW1/4; Section 02, E1/2 of NE1/4; Section 34, NW1/4 of NW1/4. (242.5 acres m/l)

T39N, R28W, Section 09, S1/2 of NE1/4, SE1/4 of NW1/4; Section 10, NW1/4 of NW1/4. (160 acres m/l)

T43N, R27W, Section 04, NW1/4 of SW1/4, SW1/4 of NW1/4; Section 05, N1/2 of SE1/4, SE1/4 of NE1/4. (200 acres m/l)

T43N, R34W, Section 01, E1/2 of SE1/4. (80 acres m/l)

T43N, R32W, Section 17, NW1/4 of SE1/4. (40 acres m/l)

T43N, R33W, Section 07, N1/2 of NW1/4; Section 11, S1/2 of SE1/4; Section 14, NW1/4 of NE1/4. (200.05 acres m/l)

T45N, R29W, Section 34, W1/2 of SE1/4. (80 acres m/l)

T43N, R26W, Section 06, N1/2 of SW1/4, NW1/4 of SE1/4, SW1/4 of SW1/4. (158.96 acres m/l)

T44N, R29W, Section 01, N1/2 of NW1/4; Section 02, NW1/4 of NW1/4; Section 03, NE1/4 of NE1/4. (169.58 acres m/l)

Editor's Note: For more information on minerals visit https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources/minerals. See also the DNR Mineral Management interactive map.

As Bad River heads to Federal Court for emergency shut down of Line 5, area is woefully underprepared for a pipeline rupture

A meeting at the Bad River meander on May 5, 2023, with Enbridge, two engineering firms, Region 5 EPA and Mashkiiziibii Department of Natural Resources. The river bank is now approximately 10-12 feet from the pipeline. (Photo © and courtesy David Joe Bates)

By Barbara With*
Posted May 17, 2023, on Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative
Published in part here with permission

The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa are in Federal Court on Thursday, May 18, to ask the judge to shut down Enbridge Line 5 in the face of the deteriorating conditions of the pipeline and the urgent emergency an imminent pipeline rupture presents to the area.

On November 28, 2022, after finding Enbridge guilty of trespassing, US District Court Judge William Conley issued an order for Bad River and Enbridge to come to an agreement about shutting down the aging pipeline after years of unsuccessful mediation and litigation. Stopping short of ordering the pipeline decommissioned, Judge Conley based his ruling on the idea that "the risk of a catastrophic failure of the pipeline at the meander remains thankfully at least a year away." The opinion was based on "26 or 27 feet of riverbank between the Bad River shoreline and Line 5 at its nearest point."

Drone shots taken on April 11 and May 1 showed erosion due to flooding has swept away the banks, and the shortest distance between the pipeline and the River was roughly 17-18 feet, only four months later. On May 5, the river has rapidly eroded the shorelines to within 10 feet of the pipeline (photo above)....CLICK HERE to read the rest of this article.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel supports Bad River in Amicus Brief

On May 17, 2023, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed an amicus brief in support of the emergency motion filed last week by the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians of the Bad River Reservation asking for the shutdown of Enbridge's Line 5 pipeline as mentioned above.

If the pipeline ruptures, it will release oil and natural gas liquids into the Bad River, which flows directly into Lake Superior a mere 16 miles downstream.

"Lake Superior is a priceless natural and cultural resource and, like all the Great Lakes, it is vital to our way of life in Michigan," Nessel said. "As Attorney General, I owe a duty to the people of Michigan to protect all of Michigan’s waters, not only for us today, but also for future generations. I will always do everything in my power to protect the Great Lakes from the threat posed by those who care more about their bottom line than about Michigan’s residents and natural resources." (Inset photo: Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Photo courtesy michigan.gov.)

The purpose of the State’s brief is to ask the court to consider the impacts to the State of Michigan, its residents, and its natural resources if the pipeline ruptures and contaminates Lake Superior, and to inform the court that Michigan believes that the risk of a rupture outweighs any risk posed by a shutdown.

Nessel filed a lawsuit in state court in June 2019 to shut down Line 5, saying it was a grave threat to Michigan and the Great Lakes.

* Editor's Note: Guest author Barbara With is a journalist for the Wisconsin Citizens Media Cooperative.

Residents brainstorm ideas on Hancock's future for Master Plan update

By Michele Bourdieu

During a public meeting at the Orpheum Theater on April 12, 2023, Hancock residents discuss and report on ideas for updating the City of Hancock Master Plan. Facilitating the discussions is Suzanne Schulz, standing at left, Urban Planning Practice leader from Progressive AE in Grand Rapids, Mich. A second meeting was held on April 13 at the Hancock Arena (see below). (Photos by Keweenaw Now)

HANCOCK -- Can Hancock walkability and bikability be improved despite the hilly topography of the City? Should the Hancock waterfront be improved for the public with boardwalks and a walking trail or developed for additional housing? Now that Finlandia University is closing its programs, how can the university properties such as the Jutila Center, Hirvonen Hall, the Quincy Green and more be best utilized to benefit City residents? 

These are just some of the questions discussed by Hancock residents during two recent public meetings intended to collect input for updating Hancock's 2018 Master Plan.* Residents could choose to attend one or both of the meetings -- one held at the Orpheum Theater on April 12 and the other at the Hancock (formerly Houghton County) Arena on April 13. The combined turnout was estimated at more than 100 residents for the two events. A team of three planning consultants from Progressive AE in Grand Rapids facilitated the two meetings to assist the City of Hancock with ideas for the Master Plan update.

April 12 Meeting at Orpheum Theater

At the beginning of the April 12 meeting in the Orpheum, Suzanne Schulz, Progressive AE Urban Planning Practice leader, introduces her Progressive AE assistants -- Joy Sportel, right, architect and planner, and James Kilborn, associate planner. Schulz also explains the series of activities for the meeting, including discussions of Hancock's Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Challenges (SWOC) and a map study to brainstorm ideas for the future.

Following a short ice-breaker for residents to meet the people at their tables and write down what they like about Hancock, the small groups discussed Hancock's Strengths. They answered these questions: What is good about living in Hancock? What assets does Hancock have that other communities lack? Here they report to the larger group and facilitators:

During the April 12, 2023, meeting at the Orpheum Theater in Hancock, for gathering public input to update the City of Hancock Master Plan, residents speak about what they found in their discussion to be some of Hancock's strengths. (Videos by Keweenaw Now)

Denise Hansen, retail manager for the Keweenaw Co-op, takes notes during the SWOC discussions to report to the larger group. Residents in the small groups took turns offering reports on their discussions.

The next step was to identify Hancock's Weaknesses, in answer to these questions: What are aspects of life in Hancock that need improving? What in Hancock is currently missing? Here are some of the weaknesses discussed and reported by the April 12 meeting attendants:

• poor sidewalks and need for sidewalk snow removal
• lack of retail employment
• noise from motorized trails
• poultry not allowed
• lack of access to waterfront
• lack of scheduled public transit
• downtown parking limited
• need for diverse housing
• blight in vacant housing
• downtown not walkable because of traffic speed
• too many offices and not enough restaurants or coffee shops downtown
• street lights should point down
• need to stop comparing to Houghton.
  

Miriam Pickens, who attended the Apr. 12 meeting, commented to Keweenaw Now on how some of those weaknesses could turn into opportunities for the City of Hancock.

"I found that there was a general sense that Hancock has a lot of potential," Pickens said of the discussions. "We have here a vibrant community with an Art Center, a larger Keweenaw Co-op downtown, and a college campus, though sadly closed, offering opportunity like never before. We don’t have to be a little sister to Houghton. We can choose a direction which is unique to us."

For the discussion on Opportunities, residents were to answer this question: "What actions can Hancock take to become an even better place to visit or call home? Here are some opportunities the groups reported at the April 12 meeting:

• more docks for water craft
• more non-motorized trails
• a YMCA/YWCA
• public library (possibly Finlandia's)
• work with Michigan Tech on developing electric recreational vehicles (less noisy)
• less light pollution (for dark sky)
• more public green space
• Co-op at new location downtown.
  

Cynthia Coté, Copper Country Community Arts Center executive director, while she wasn't able to stay for the whole meeting, said she was glad to see so many people come out for it. She added her group discussed some opportunities related to art. 

"Our group discussed creative ways to liven up some of the empty storefronts with pop ups and displays," Coté noted. "We also recognized the work of the Hancock Beautification Committee. The flowers and planters are fabulous."

Cynthia Coté, seated left, Copper Country Community Arts Center executive director, participates in a small-group discussion with Frank Fiala, standing, co-owner with son Boone Fiala of the Orpheum; Emily Fiala, Frank's wife; Troy Haaland; and Gena Daman.

Frank Fiala, co-owner of the Orpheum, circulated among the groups at the meeting.

"We were delighted to host the City of Hancock's initial meeting for the Master Plan revision and thoroughly impressed by the creativity, thought and passions expressed by those attending," he told Keweenaw Now.

For the fourth category, Challenges, participants discussed answers to this question: What factors pose a threat to Hancock's future success?

After brainstorming in their small groups, Hancock residents report on their discussion of current challenges to the City, including the topography, dependency on the Portage Lift Bridge, Bridge closures, the Adams Township water supply, poverty, lack of child care and more.

The final activity was a study of the map of Hancock to locate points of interest for future planning.

During the map study Zack Osborn (standing) and Ginger Alberti point out the location of the new Hancock Business Park, discussing how it might influence growth around the Maasto Hiihto preserve of skiing/biking trails and the general housing prices in the region. Also studying the map here are Mike Sabo, Ginger's husband, second from right, and Susan Burack, second from left.

Following the map study, participants reported on areas of change discussed in their small groups:

Areas of change noted here include the challenges of walkability, downtown needs for amenities, waterfront issues and more.

Participants here offer suggestions for re-use of Finlandia properties, including a potential public library and an art community in the Jutila Center. They also point out the need for more green space, a boardwalk along the canal, slower traffic through downtown and more.

Housing needs, including student housing quality, are discussed here as important for Hancock's future.

Mary Babcock, Hancock City Manager and Zoning Administrator, attended both the April 12 and April 13 Master Plan kickoff meetings and told Keweenaw Now she was very pleased at the turnout for both.

"We had 40 to 60 people at each event, which far exceeded our expectations," Babcock said. "The facilitators of the event were very happy in regards to both the number of attendees and the interaction during the meetings."

Mary Babcock, right, is pictured here with facilitator Suzanne Schulz during th April 12 meeting at the Orpheum in Hancock.

Todd Gast, Hancock Downtown Development Authority (DDA) coordinator, also attended both the April 12 and 13 meetings and commented on the turnout.

"The City of Hancock is so excited that so many of our residents came out on a beautiful day to be a part of this launch party for our Master Plan," he said.

April 13 Meeting at Hancock Arena

Attendees at the Hancock Arena on April 13 followed the same procedure of discussion activities as those who attended the meeting at the Orpheum on April 12. A few residents attended both meetings. One of those was Zack Osborn (pictured above in map study photo) who noted a division in the town.

"The master planning meetings demonstrated a careful balance that the citizens of Hancock want for their town, one that encourages economic growth and opportunity for its residents while simultaneously retaining its rural small town atmosphere and affordability," Osborn told Keweenaw Now.

Hancock residents filled the Sisu Room at the Hancock Arena (formerly Houghton County Arena) on April 13, 2023, to discuss their ideas for updating the City of Hancock Master Plan. (Photos by Keweenaw Now)

Following the ice breaker at the beginning of the meeting, individuals spoke about their ideas for public transit between Houghton and Hancock, snow plow improvement and solar energy:

Participants at the April 13 meeting on updating Hancock's Master Plan discuss the need to have public transit between Houghton and Hancock, modeled on a shuttle van already available to Michigan Tech students. Others comment on snow plow technology and solar energy. (Videos by Keweenaw Now)

The small groups then discussed Hancock's Strengths and reported on these for the general discussion:

Hancock's strengths mentioned at this meeting include a few more specific examples than those noted at the April 12 meeting, such as new leadership, fairgrounds, technology businesses, etc. At both meetings "the people" were mentioned as strengths.

As for Weaknesses, the April 13 group echoed many of those mentioned the previous day, such as limited downtown parking, lack of public transit, limited housing, lack of waterfront access, public restrooms, need for a non-motorized trail, etc.

In an email reply to Keweenaw Now, Allyson Jabusch, a member of the Hancock Beautification Group, commented on the need for a non-motorized walking trail along the waterfront.

"My intent for being there was to ensure mention of the creation of a waterfront walking trail," Jabusch writes. "Was glad to hear this brought up by others too. Not surprising as waterfront improvements have been listed as 'planned actions' for a long time. The City of Hancock’s Strategic Plan Update for 2012-2016 lists 'extend Navy Street one-way east to west, from the condos to Forest Street, after securing the necessary easements…continue installing boardwalk segments and fishing piers along the waterfront where appropriate.' Would really like to be able to walk along the waterfront under a tunnel of trees with the birds calling in the shrubbery or on the shoreline -- waterfowl present until boating activity fires up."

Hancock resident Allyson Jabusch, at right in foreground, is pictured here with her small discussion group at the April 13 meeting at the Arena.

Jabusch, who often attends Hancock City Council meetings, added she was encouraged by the turnout at this meeting.

"All ages, earnest folk too, who really seemed to care about the community. The event seemed to elicit lots of good ideas, like the one about expanding bus service," Jabush noted. "Really like this community and our City’s governing peeps."

During the April 13 meeting, several of those good ideas came up in the discussion of Opportunities for making Hancock a better place to live or visit -- including these not mentioned on the previous day:

• making Quincy Street more pedestrian friendly in two ways and re-routing US 41 to Hancock Street
• free public transportation
• preserving historic buildings through zoning ordinances
• more winter family events
• affordable housing
• 4-season biking
• improving the intersection near Gino's restaurant
• renewable energy from timber.

In the Challenges category, the April 13 group expressed concerns about how the sale/re-use of Finlandia's buildings is under a receivership with little communication or transparency on how it is being handled:

Residents point out here that the opportunities Finlandia's closing offers to the City, such as potential needed housing, are challenged by the receivership arrangement.

Jim Kurtti, Honorary Consul of Finland in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and recently retired director of the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock, attended the April 13 meeting and commented on it in an email to Keweenaw Now.

"I'm heartened by all the concern and in particular, constructive ideas regarding the soon to be empty buildings on Finlandia's campus," Kurtti writes. "The community, especially in Hancock, is rallying well to make the change positive. Much of the efforts are relative to the Finnish brand on the City, which is also very positive. I'm very encouraged."

Kurtti said most of the people at his table were new residents of Hancock.

"Our table was mostly populated by new residents, who really value the small town strengths and want Hancock to be prepared for the future when people discover all the great things the UP has, in particular, communities like Hancock," he noted.

Jim Kurtti, third from right, shared this table with some new Hancock residents. James Kilborn, second from right, Progressive AE associate planner, circulated among the small groups during discussions.

Additional challenges mentioned during the April 13 meeting included follow-through on blight, lack of space for development, housing affordability, lack of willingness to change and more.

Diane Eshbach, Hancock business owner, notes items discussed under the four categories (SWOC) at her small group's table.

Following the map study, residents at the April 13 meeting spoke about their ideas for change that they would like to see included in the updated Master Plan.

Residents express differing ideas on development in Hancock vs. keeping its small-town quality of life.

Participants continue their report on the discussion of potential changes, including ways to improve the aesthetics of the City to make it attractive to tourists and pedestrian crossings at difficult intersections on US 41, such as the corner near Pat's IGA at the top of White Street.

Both Progressive AE facilitators for these meetings -- Joy Sportel, architect and planner, and James Kilborn, associate planner -- had very positive reactions to Hancock residents' participation.

Joy Sportel and James Kilborn, Progressive AE facilitators, are pictured here following the April 13 meeting at the Hancock City / County Arena.

"This is probably the most well attended and engaging community event I've ever facilitated," Sportel told Keweenaw Now. "We hold these types of events pretty often, and this was great. We got so much information!"

Kilborn also noted he was very happy with the turnout at both meetings.

"I think the number of people that came to express their ideas for the future really demonstrates their excitement and their care for what they'd like to see for the future of Hancock," Kilborn said.

Suzanne Schulz, Progressive AE Urban Planning Practice leader, expressed her enthusiasm and appreciation for the public input gathered at the two meetings for updating the City of Hancock Master Plan.

In an interview with Keweenaw Now following the April 13 meeting at the Arena, Suzanne Schulz summarizes several of residents' suggestions for Hancock's future that will assist in the Master Plan update. She mentions also the survey that all Hancock residents are invited to complete to aid in the planning process.

The survey for the City of Hancock Master Plan Update is now online. Hancock residents are invited to answer just 6 questions on what they view as opportunities for change and what they want to see for Hancock's future. The survey takes only an estimated four minutes to complete, with an optional text box for additional comments.

* Editor's Note: To learn more about the City of Hancock -- its history, government, news and events, recreational opportunities and more -- visit the City of Hancock Web site. The 2018 Hancock Master Plan is available on the City's Web site here.