August 01, 2017

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the fall turkey hunting application period ends today, Aug. 1. No applications will be accepted after the closing date. The application fee is $5. Applications and licenses may be purchased at any authorized license agent or online at www.mdnr-elicense.com.

The 2017 fall turkey season runs Sept. 15 to Nov. 14. A total of 51,350 licenses are available, including 4,650 general licenses and 46,700 private-land licenses.

Information about fall turkey hunting can be found at www.michigan.gov/turkey. Fall turkey drawing results and leftover license availability also will be posted at this page Aug. 14. 

August 01, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — Airport users as well as the general public are being made aware that the runway at the City’s municipal airport will be closed starting on Monday, Aug. 7, for up to 12 days. 

The current project taking place is the porous friction overlay (PFC Overlay), which is anticipated to rejuvenate the life of the runway for 10 to 15 years.  This material has been used at other Michigan airports with noted success in Cadillac, Sturgis and Bellaire.  Additional improvements associated with the project will be new paint and improved drainage which will decrease hydroplaning. 

In receiving bids that came in under budget, the estimates show the project at $458,180 (27% under budget) of which state funds would pay 90 percent. A cost estimate of $88,000 was estimated for the construction engineering, but given that the construction engineering costs as well as the construction costs are both under the initial engineer’s estimates, the total expected construction and construction engineering costs are expected to be $519,152. Local cost match of 10% are estimated to not exceed $57,175.

If you have questions about how this may affect your flight or client services, please contact the airport directly at 906-635-0252. 

July 31, 2017

RUDYARD - The 21st Annual Rudyard Lions Summerfest Triathlon and 5K Run was held on Sunday, July 30 in Rudyard, under near perfect conditions with blue skies and only a slight breeze; a perfect day for participants competing in the 5K run, triathlon and team triathlon events.  A new twist to this year’s 5K race was the participation of Al and Christine Witkowski who are attempting to compete in 5K races in every state this year.  The Rudyard event was their Michigan race and they are off to Wisconsin next. Read More

July 30, 2017

On Monday, Aug. 21, all of North America will be treated to an eclipse of the sun. Anyone within the path of totality can see one of nature’s most awe inspiring sights - a total solar eclipse. This path, where the moon will completely cover the sun and the sun's tenuous atmosphere - the corona - can be seen, will stretch from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Observers outside this path will still see a partial solar eclipse where the moon covers part of the sun's disk.

NASA created a website to provide a guide to this amazing event. On the site you will find activities, events, broadcasts, and resources from NASA and our partners across the nation. Visit https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/ for more information and a viewing guide.

July 28, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — The Eastern Upper Peninsula Transportation Authority has launched a new online ticket sales system serving Sault Ste. Marie, Sugar Island, Neebish Island and Drummond Island.

“Our transportation system is vitally important to the economy of this entire region. We have upgraded and streamlined our ticketing process by taking advantage of today’s online technology,” said EUPTA Executive Director Pete Paramski.“Now our customers can purchase ticket books on our website for transportation between the three islands and on our regional bus system as well”.

The test period of the system produced excellent results allowing the organization to fully launch the new system for the onset of the 2017 tourist season.

R.E. Diehl & Associates, a Brookfield, Wisc. technical firm with significant maritime, transportation and tourism experience, was retained to design and execute the new system for EUPTA. Website preferences can be saved by customers, allowing subsequent purchases to take less than 60 seconds.

EUPTA customers now have the ability to purchase ticket books by using a debit card, credit card or online check. Ticket books will be mailed to customers via US Postal service upon purchase. Go to www.EUPTA.net for general information.

Visit the following links for puchases: http://www.eupta.net/ferry-system/ (to purchase ferry tickets) and http://www.eupta.net/bussing-system/ (to purchase bus tickets).

For further information contact the EUPTA Offices at 906-632-2898

July 27, 2017

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SAULT STE MARIE — The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development is currently accepting applications from very low-income families in rural areas for home repair loans.

“Though we may not want to think about it, fall weather is not that far away,” said Acting State Director for Michigan, Jason Church.  “Now is a good time for rural residents to address roof and furnace issues.”

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Loans may be up to $20,000, carry an interest rate of 1 percent and can be used to for repairs, insulation, improvements, weatherization, water heater and furnace replacement, and to make a home accessible for persons with a disability.  

Applicants must have an acceptable credit history, meet income guidelines, have repayment ability to service the new loan and any existing obligations, be a United States citizen or legally admitted for permanent residence, and own and personally occupy the home on a permanent basis.

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To learn more, visit USDA Rural Development on the web at www.rd.usda.gov/mi or contact our office in Sault Ste. Marie at 906-632-9611 Ext. 4.

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USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; homeownership; community services such as schools, public safety and healthcare; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

July 27, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — Soo Co-op Credit Union recently awarded four scholarships to help student member owners meet higher education goals through the Nick Gerrish Scholarship Program.

SCCU began establishing Nick Gerrish Scholarship funds over 30 years ago as a benefit to member-owners attaining a post-secondary education. For the 2017 awards, scholarship applicants were asked to write a brief essay describing future career goals and how scholarship funds would help meet those objectives. SCCU received more than 80 applications.

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"We are honored to offer scholarships to a set of individuals whose achievements show great potential for leadership in SCCU member-owner communities." said Lynda Ellis, president/CEO at SCCU.

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The three recipients of $2,500 scholarships are: Joseph Sullivan, Emily Lawson and Deana LaLonde. The Bay Mills Community College Scholarship is awarded each year to a SCCU member-owner that attends Bay Mills Community College. A scholarship in the amount of $1,500 was awarded to Shelby Johanson. More than $199,000, has been awarded to credit union members since 1986 through the Nick Gerrish Scholarship Program.

July 27, 2017

Thursday, July 27, 4 to 7 p.m., Bay Mills Resort and Casino Parking Lot

Available items: Watermelon, musk melon, pears, apples, apple wood smoked salt, corn stalks, peppermint herbal drops, pumpkins, cucumbers, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, red potatoes, tomatoes, maple syrup, jams & jellies, perennial plants, kale, collards, chard, garlic, dill, beans, onions, yellow and green zucchini, spaghetti squash, acorn squash, butternut squash, sweet corn, dandelion tea, whitefish, trout, smoked whitefish, smoked fish dip, artisan breads, apple/peach bread, banana bread and muffins, Native American jewelry, herbs, eggs, and many more locally made and produced items.
The market accepts WIC & Senior Project Fresh, SNAP/Bridge Cards, and Double Up Food Bucks
Interested in becoming a vendor?  Contact Connie Watson 906-248-8363 cwatson@baymills.org  Angie Johnston 906-248-8399 ajohnston@baymills.org or Cloud Sparks brimleybaymillsmkt@baymills.org

This market is brought to you by “Wiinsinidaa Mnomiijim” Let’s Eat Good Food Community Coalition, Bay Mills Health Center, and Waishkey Bay Farm.  The market will take place each Thursday until October.

 

July 26, 2017

The Transportation Security Administration is implementing new, stronger screening procedures for carry-on items that require travelers to place all electronics larger than a cell phone in bins for X-ray screening in standard lanes. Following extensive testing and successful pilots at 10 airports, TSA plans to expand these measures to all U.S. airports during the weeks and months ahead.

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Due to an increased threat to aviation security, DHS Secretary John Kelly announced in late June new security requirements for nearly 280 airports in more than 100 countries. In an effort to raise the baseline for aviation security worldwide, TSA continues to work closely with airports and airlines to enhance security measures and stay ahead of the evolving threat.

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“Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone,” said TSA Acting Administrator Huban A. Gowadia.

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As new procedures are phased in, TSA officers will begin to ask travelers to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in a bin with nothing on top or below, similar to how laptops have been screened for years. This simple step helps TSA officers obtain a clearer X-ray image. Read More

July 25, 2017

LANSING — Thousands of people have responded to the emergency call for blood and platelet donations issued by the American Red Cross in early July, but there continues to be a critical summer blood shortage. Eligible donors of all types are urgently needed.

After issuing the emergency call, the Red Cross has experienced a 30 percent increase in blood donation appointments through mid-July. About half of the appointments were scheduled by donors using the free Blood Donor App or at redcrossblood.org. Despite this improvement, blood products are still being distributed to hospitals as fast as donations are coming in, so more donations are needed to meet patient needs and replenish the blood supply. Read More

July 24, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE —  United Way of the Eastern Upper Peninsula has been awarded a Senior Corps Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) grant of $75,000 from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to support 75 RSVP volunteers serving in the tri-county area of Chippewa, Luce, and Mackinac Counties. The grant will expand RSVP’s presence in our tri-county area, which was previously unserved by a Senior Corps RSVP project.

“We are so excited about this opportunity,” said Suzanne Prell, Executive Director of United Way of the EUP. “What a great way to engage older individuals in caring volunteer work that will change our community for the better.”

In an effort to improve school readiness and graduation rates, United Way will recruit 75 RSVP volunteers to help build the academic skills of 325 students most vulnerable and at-risk of not graduating. RSVP volunteers will serve lower-income three to five-year olds in various pre-school and Head Start locations. In partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs, RSVP volunteers will become mentors that support education and career development to increase academic engagement and school performance, helping to provide kids with the skills necessary to graduate high school and succeed.

Senior Corps engages the skills, talents, and experience of more than 245,000 Americans age 55 and over to meet a wide range of community needs through a network of three programs — the Foster Grandparent Program, the Senior Companion Program and RSVP – administered by the CNCS.  Senior Corps volunteers make a real difference in the lives of individuals as they serve communities to create measurable impact, benefit volunteers through the service experience, and create community capacity. CNCS awards grants to local nonprofits, public agencies, faith-based and tribal organizations to administer these programs.  Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the nation, Senior Corps RSVP offers a diverse range of volunteer activities for Americans age 55+ in every state, territory and the District of Columbia.  www.seniorcorps.gov

To learn how to get involved, or for more information, contact United Way of the EUP at 906-632-3700 or www.unitedwayeup.org/volunteer.

July 21, 2017

By CARIN TUNNEY

Capital News Service

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LANSING — Americans celebrate holidays by sending things up.

But popular Chinese sky lanterns can kill livestock, strangle wildlife and cause fires, experts say.

Sky lanterns are made of paper, cloth and string. They use wires or bamboo for support. So-called fuel cells made of cardboard and wax allow them to float when lit.

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They can soar more than a thousand feet and travel for more than a mile, depending on winds.

And that makes them dangerous, said Rep. Henry Yanez, D-Sterling Heights.

Yanez, a former firefighter, has proposed legislation to roll back the state’s fireworks law and prohibit the lanterns. They’re already illegal in 29 states, including Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. READ MORE

July 21, 2017

More than 270 tax-foreclosed properties in eight Michigan counties will be offered at public auctions between July 31 and Aug. 28, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

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Branch, Clinton, Iosco, Keweenaw, Livingston, Luce, Mecosta and Shiawassee counties have chosen to use the state of Michigan as their foreclosing governmental unit. The residential and commercial properties being auctioned from these counties have been foreclosed due to delinquent property taxes.

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Individuals will have the opportunity to bid for parcels online at www.tax-sale.info or in-person at designated sites on the following dates:

• July 31, 2017 – Branch County

• Aug. 12, 2017 – Mecosta County

• Aug. 23, 2017 – Iosco County

• Aug. 24, 2017 – Luce County

• Aug. 26, 2017 – Keweenaw County

• Aug. 28, 2017 – Clinton, Livingston and Shiawassee counties

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Potential bidders assume the responsibility to thoroughly research property with the municipality in which the property is located. Auction details are available online at www.tax-sale.info or by calling 1-800-259-7470.

Bidders are encouraged to thoroughly review all of the Auction Rules and Frequently Asked Questions on www.tax-sale.info prior to participating in any state tax foreclosure auctions.

July 20, 2017

BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Biology Dept. conducted routine water quality monitoring at Riverview/Ballpark Beach and results indicate the presence of E. coli bacteria at a level that is unsafe for swimming.  Continued monitoring will be completed until levels indicate that conditions are once again safe.  Please refer to signs at the beach entrance to see if levels are once again safe.  In the meantime, please swim at your own risk.

The high bacteria levels in this area are often due to bird or other wildlife fecal inputs.  The bacteria can cause skin and eye irritation or cause infections in cuts or wounds already present.  If the source of bacteria is of human origin, there may be an increased risk due to more harmful strains of E. coli, other bacteria, parasites or viruses.

July 20, 2017

    SAULT STE. MARIE — Each year for the last full weekend of July, on the very grounds where the first European settlement in Michigan was created when the Sainte Marie du Sault mission was founded in 1668, a celebration of history takes place.  This is the same area where John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company, which was chartered in 1808, had its post in Sault Ste. Marie.  It is the very site where Fort De Repentigny was constructed to provide refuge for French voyageurs in 1750, and where, in 1822, Colonel Hugh Brady arrived with Henry Rowe Schoolcraft and established Fort Brady.  Before all that, it was the main gathering place of the Anishanaabeg where the adjacent land served as the Wadjiwong (Great Hill) Ancient Burial Grounds; one of the earliest known Anishinaabeg graveyards.What better place to bring history back to life than the very spot where the original events first played out?

    If you have never been to this event, here are some of the weekend’s activities:
    — Learn about life in colonial days from local and visiting historic re-enactors.
    —Storytellers will captivate you as they weave tales of exciting adventure from days gone by.
    —Musicians will be playing some of the hottest hits of the 17th & 18th centuries.
    —Play the games that colonial children played.
    —Visit the tent-stores of vendors of clothing, and accoutrements.
    —Artisans will demonstrate crafts of the colonial days  - spinning, needlecrafts, etc..
    — Take in the aroma of food being cooked old-style; then enjoy the taste of the colonial fare.
    —Dance like the colonial people of Sault Ste. Marie.
    — Take a guided tour of the historic homes of John Johnston, Henry Rowe and Jane Johnston Schoolcraft and Bishop Frederic Baraga.
    The grounds open at 10 a.m. on both days, with events running until 6 p.m. on Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. On Saturday evening at 9 p.m. there will be a concert at City Hall on the corner of Bingham and Portage Street.
    Admission: Adult: $5,  Children (12 & under): $2, Family: $10
Admission good for both days, so come and go as you please.
    For more information, and the full schedule of events, visit: http://www.historicwaterstreet.org/rendezvous/.

 

July 18, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — The Downtown Development Authority will hold its annual Downtown Days, featuring sidewalk sales, on Friday and Saturday Aug. 4 and 5 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m.  to  4  p.m. on Saturday. The event will be held downtown on Ashmun Street between Dawson and Portage, and will feature lots of shopping, live music at The Crooked Music Stage, and interactive activities for children. Annual events such as the Central Savings Bank Free Pancake Breakfast and the Friends of Bayliss Public Library Used Book Sale continue in keeping with Downtown Days tradition. The Slashin’ Ashmun Car Show will take place on Saturday.

If you are interested in becoming a vendor for one of the biggest events downtown, pre-registration & payment of entry is required. The fee to become a vendor is $25 per day, which reserves you a 10x20 space, and vendors may set up two hours prior to the event.  Power is available on a limited basis. Reservations and special requests will be taken on a first come first serve basis. For additional information, contact the Downtown Development Authority at 906-635-6973 or visit http://downtownsault.org/downtowndays/ to download the vendor application.

This event has free admission and is open to everyone. Sponsors of the weekend’s events are War Memorial Hospital, Soo Co-Op Credit Union, Sault Ste. Marie Convention and Visitors Bureau, Crooked Music and Cup of the Day.  

July 17, 2017

Public hearing scheduled for July 25 in St. Ignace

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is currently accepting comments on a permit application from Enbridge Energy, Inc., to install up to 22 anchor support structures into the Lake Michigan lake bed for the Line 5 pipelines under the Straits of Mackinac between Emmet and Mackinac counties.

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The MDEQ will hold a public hearing on the permit application on Tuesday, July 25, at Little Bear East Arena & Community Center (275 Marquette Street, St. Ignace, MI 49781) from 1 to 4 p.m.  The public will have the opportunity to provide comment on the record about the permit application submitted under authority of Part 325, Great Lakes Submerged Lands, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended.

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Comments are also being accepted on the MDEQ MiWaters website at https://miwaters.deq.state.mi.us/miwaters/#/external/publicnotice/search.  Enter 2RD-DFDK-Y35G into the Application Number box and select Search.  Then select View and the Add Comment tab.   Written comments may also be delivered to the hearing or mailed to the MDEQ Gaylord Field Office at 2100 West M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735.

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Additional information about the permit application is available at www.michigan.gov/pipelineanchors. This permit application public comment period will close at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 4, 2017.

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This public hearing precedes the Public Feedback Session beginning at 6 p.m. on the Dynamic Risk Assessment Systems, Inc., draft Alternatives Analysis for the Straits Pipeline report also at Little Bear East Arena & Community Center.  While both events involve the Line 5 pipelines under the Straits of Mackinac, the public hearing is specific to the permit application for anchor supports.

July 17, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE – Lake Superior State’s Sept. 30 exhibition hockey game against Laurentian its earliest home opener on record and the first of 19 regular-season home games.

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Season tickets for the 2017-18 Laker Hockey season, which includes an action-packed Fall, are available online or at Norris Center Guest Services.

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This year’s season-ticket packages are $216.50 for adults and $101.20 for children 17-and-under. The Snowbird Package, which includes the first 13 games, is available for $132.60. Single-game tickets will increase 50 cents to help cover mounting ticket vendor service charges. Season tickets can be purchased or renewed at the Student Activity Center Help Desk during the Norris Center’s normal operational hours, or by calling 906-635-2602. Visit www.lssulakers.com/tickets to order online. Seats will be held until Oct. 1.

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The LSSU hockey schedule is front-end loaded with home series against Laurentian (Sept. 30-Oct. 1), Michigan Tech (Oct. 13-14), Alaska Anchorage (Nov. 3-4), the U.S. National Team Development Program’s Under-18 Team (Nov. 24-25), Alaska (Dec. 1-2) and Minnesota State-Mankato (Dec. 8-9), plus an Oct. 6-7 home-and-home non-conference series against Northern Michigan.

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The Lakers will celebrate Great Lake State Weekend during the MTU series, and sponsor the 10th annual Pink in the Rink on Nov. 4.

A busy January includes home series against Bemidji State, Ferris State and Bowling Green. Oddly, the schedule includes no February home games, so the Lakers are more focused than ever on a top-four finish and bringing a Western Collegiate Hockey Association quarterfinal series to Taffy Abel Arena in early March.

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The season ticket package includes three playoff games. Should the Lakers not host a first-round playoff series, playoff ticket refunds will be offered through May 15, 2018.

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The Lakers’ senior class is led by top-returning scorer, J.T. Henke, along with defensemen Kyle Chatham, Aidan Wright and Ryan Renz. They also return top goal scorers, sophomore Max Humitz and juniors Diego Cuglietta and Gage Torrel. Last season, LSSU’s average attendance jumped 12 percent to over 2,100 fans per game (its highest attendance average since joining the WCHA).

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Reminders: LSSU basketball and volleyball single-game ticket prices will also increase 50 cents during the 2017-18 season. Division II sports passes will remain $55. Adult single-game ticket prices are $12.50 (hockey), $6.50 (basketball) and $5.50 (volleyball). Youth ticket prices for children 17-and-under are $6.50 (hockey), $4.50 (basketball) and $3.50 (volleyball). Hockey single-game tickets for seniors (age 60 and over) are $10.50.

July 14, 2017

WHITEFISH POINT — Frank Mays, survivor of the tragic 1958 sinking of the Carl D. Bradley will sign his book, If We Make It ’till Daylight at the Shipwreck Coast Museum Store in Whitefish Point this weekend. The SS Carl D. Bradley was a self-unloading Great Lakes freighter that sank in a Lake Michigan storm on November 18, 1958. Of the 35 crew members, 33 died in the sinking and 23 were from the port town of Rogers City. Mays, working as a deck watchman, was 26 at the time of the shipwreck.

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Mays is the only living survivor of a major Great Lakes Shipwreck and is considered "one of the most fascinating people the Shipwreck Society has ever known." He will sign books and give a presentation.  His life is well-detailed in his book, and he invites questions from visitors.  A genuine survivor in the most literal sense of the word, Mays credits a positive attitude among many things that keep him going.

Events schedule:

• Saturday, July 15: Book signing at Museum Store, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Saturday, July 15: Live presentation by Mays at the Motor Lifeboat House, 7 p.m.

• Sunday, July 16: Book signing at Museum Store, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on this event, call 800-635-1742 for more information.

July 14, 2017

ST. IGNACE — The Mackinac Bridge Authority has outlined improvements it will make to ensure the safety and convenience of participants in the 2017 Annual Bridge Walk, as well as efforts to keep the public informed about the bridge's closure during the 60th anniversary event. Plans were presented during the MBA's regular board meeting on July 13 at the Mackinac Island City Hall. Read More

July 13, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE – Lake Superior State University's Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Peter T. Mitchell to serve as interim president, effective July 1. LSSU lost its eighth president, Dr. Thomas Pleger, on May 5 after a brief illness. Interim provost Dr. David Roland Finley had been serving as LSSU's acting president since then.

 Mitchell was the fourteenth president of Albion College from 1997 to 2007 and is a member of its Class of 1967. Most recently, he has been running a consulting company, Proactive Transition Management. The company manages change and transitions for colleges and universities, providing strategic responses to specific challenges and opportunities. PTM also offers executive searches, compensation studies, evaluation, and individually tailored professional coaching programs for college and university presidents and vice presidents. Read More

July 12, 2017

 BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Community College has joined Achieving the Dream, a network of more than 220 colleges in 39 states dedicated to improving student success.  As a network institution, BMCC will innovate to implement, align, and scale cutting edge reforms, work with ATD coaches to build institutional capacity and connect with peers to foster learning and share information.

“Bay Mills Community College is excited to be part of this network of community colleges working together to build institutional capacity to better serve our students in the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan and from across the country in our online learning environment,” said Michael C. Parish, BMCC president.  Read More

July 12, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — On July 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bayliss Public Library will be hosting an Antique and Collectible Appraisal event with appraiser Mark F. Moran of Iola, Wisc. Due to the success of the events of the past two years, Moran is making a return visit to the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Join us for a fun, educational experience combining information, history, and entertainment.

Moran has been an appraiser for more than 20 years, a guest expert on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow, a contributing editor to Antique Trader magazine, and co-author of more than 25 books on antiques and collectibles.

The charge per item to be appraised is $10; you may have more than one item appraised. You must register and pay in advance at the library; space is limited. The appraisals will be verbal, not written. Estimated appraisal times will be provided, but it is best to arrive early.

You may be part of the audience for the appraisal day and watch Moran in action. He will appraise most items, including: fine art, furniture, ceramics, glassware, vintage photographs, advertising, folk art, assorted toys, metalware, clocks, costume jewelry, musical instruments, books, sporting memorabilia. He does not appraise weapons, traps, Nazi memorabilia, coins and paper money, fine jewelry, precious gems, or Beanie Babies.

Attached is a more detailed list of categories he can appraise, including some that may need advance preparation. For $75,  Moran is also available to visit your home to assess your collection, if you live within 10 miles of an appraisal site. For more information, see www.markfmoran.com.

July 11, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE – As of May 31, 2017 the American Indian Commercial Tobacco Program has reached 179 enrollments, nearing their goal of 183 callers.

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The AICTP, offers free culturally tailored Native American quit coaches to help guide American Indians looking to quit using commercial tobacco products such as cigarettes, tobacco, and e-cigarettes through their journey to a healthier lifestyle.

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“Research shows that the vast majority of current smokers are aware of the dangers of commercial tobacco use, such as smoking; and wish to quit.  However, many smokers have tried to quit in the past but need extra support from coaches to be successful,” said Raeanne Madison, Community Action program manager with the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc.

Currently, 26 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives smoke cigarettes.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, life expectancy for smokers is at least 10 years shorter than for nonsmokers.

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American Indians and Alaska Natives looking to being their journey on quitting smoking, smokeless tobacco use, and e-cigarettes can enroll into the AICTP in two ways.  Interested individuals can call the toll-free number at 1-855-372-0037 or register online at https://americanindian.quitlogix.org/

July 11, 2017

BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Community College is seeking comments from the public about the College in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. The College will host a visit Oct. 2 and 3, with a team representing the Higher Learning Commission. Bay Mills Community College has been accredited by HLC since 1995. The team will review the institution’s ongoing ability to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college to the following address:

Public Comment on Bay Mills Community College

Higher Learning Commission

230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500

Chicago, IL 60604-1411
 

The public may also submit comments on HLC’s website at www.hlcommission.org/comment .

Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Comments must be in writing.

All comments must be received by September 1, 2017.

July 10, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — On Wednesday, July 12, at 7 p.m., the Chippewa County Historical Society at 115 Ashmun Street, will host Tom Farnquist, Director Emeritus of the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society, as he presents a program entitled “Diving the St. Marys River: Hidden History Recovered.” Tom was instrumental in helping CCHS acquire a wonderful gift, consisting of bottles, crocks, and clay pipes that were recovered in the waters around Sugar Island by divers Fred and Audrey Warth, of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

It is thus particularly appropriate that he will introduce the newly-created display of these artifacts. Most of the pieces were donated to the Society by  Warth in 2015, a year prior to his death, and subsequently his family added to the gift. A portion of the collection­—which consists of over 300 items—will be on permanent display, housed in an elegant custom-made cabinet designed and built by retired LSSU Professor Tom Boger.

In addition to describing some of his experiences with the Warths, and diving in the St. Marys River, Tom Farnquist will move into colder and deeper waters and present a PowerPoint talk entitled “Ghosts of the Shipwreck Coast: The Art and Science of Mapping Lake Superior Shipwreck Secrets.” A $225,000 grant awarded to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society jointly by the Federal Highway Administration, the Michigan Department of Transportation, and the Chippewa County Road Commission enabled him to assemble a group of highly talented people using state-of-the-art side-scan sonar, an unmanned remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and technical divers to record measurements, video and still imagery which was used to create site maps and paintings of five shipwrecks located in deep water off of Whitefish Point in an effort that spanned four years.

The program is free and open to the public. You may enter from the front door on Ashmun Street or by the back door off of the Portage Avenue parking lot, which is handicap accessible. Refreshments will be provided.

July 07, 2017

LANSING — Michigan residents have until Monday, July 10 to register to vote in the Aug. 8 election, which will be the first to feature the state’s new election equipment.

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Voters in 63 communities across the state may notice new ballot counting machines at the polls, but they still will be marking a paper ballot as they did before. This August, 63 communities in 11 counties will use the new optical-scan voting systems with more expected to use the new equipment in November. By August 2018, all cities and townships statewide will have the new equipment. Read More

July 07, 2017

LUCE COUNTY — Road work will begin on M-123 starting on July 10 and run until Aug. 18. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing $560,000 to treat cracks, resurface, perform shoulder work, and install centerline rumble strips on about 7 miles of M-123 from north of County Road 407 to north of Murphy Creek in Luce County. This project includes a two-year pavement performance warranty. One alternating lane will be open under flag control.

This project will result in a smoother driving surface and increased safety. Centerline rumble strips are a proven and cost-effective countermeasure to lane departure crashes.​

July 06, 2017

MUNISING — Hiawatha National Forest is currently seeking public comments on a proposal that would change the recreation fees at Grand Island National Recreation Area in order to operate and maintain recreation facilities on the island.  The comment period will be from July 6 through Sept. 6. The proposal includes new fees for overnight camping and an increase to the current fees for day use areas across the island.

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Interested public can comment by filling out one of the special comment forms available at Grand Island National Recreation Area or by entering comments online (https://cara.ecosystem-management.org/Public/CommentInput?project=NP-1683). Comments can also be mailed to Munising Ranger District; attn.: FLREA; 400 East Munising Avenue, Munising, MI 49862. Additionally, in the near future the Forest Service will announce a public open house to answer questions and collect comment forms. Read More

July 05, 2017

Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to Michigan, where they plan to film episodes of their hit series  ‘American Pickers.’

The show is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’ on the History channel. Followers watch Wolfe and Fritz, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them.

As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Wolfe and Fritz are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, the Pickers want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items.

The pair hopes to give historically significant objects a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way.

The two have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.

American Pickers is looking for leads and would love to explore hidden treasures of Michigan. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST.

July 04, 2017

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds hunters that the fall turkey hunting application period opened Saturday, July 1. Applications will be available through Aug. 1. The application fee is $5. Applications and licenses may be purchased at any authorized license agent or online at www.mdnr-elicense.com.

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The 2017 fall turkey season runs Sept. 15 to Nov. 14. A total of 51,350 licenses are available, including 4,650 general licenses and 46,700 private-land licenses.

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Information about fall turkey hunting can be found at www.michigan.gov/turkey. Fall turkey drawing results and leftover license availability also will be posted at this website Aug. 14. 

July 03, 2017

Brimley: Parade begins at 1 p.m., there will be a craft show as well downtown on M-221 near the Train Museum ( 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) with food vendors and kids activities. Fireworks, courtesy of Bay Mills Indian Community, at dusk over the lake.

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Sault Ste. Marie: Throughout the day, the Family Block Party will be taking place at the City Hall grounds. From 12 p.m.  to  8 p.m. , there will be a dance party, a kids "korner", bike decorating, and more. The parade begins at 7 p.m. and goes down Ashmun to Portage Street. Fireworks will take place at dusk over the river. 

July 03, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE — Iron work by William Morrison and paintings and photographs by Margaret La Ponsie share the Alberta House galleries during July.  “Forged in Iron—Contemporary Iron Work by William Morrison” is in the Olive Craig Gallery.  Probably best known for his large public works, such as the gate leading into the Ojibwe Cemetery in Brady Park, Morrison is showing smaller works in this exhibit—candle holders, tables, mirrors, lamps and other items for the home.

Paintings and photographs by Rudyard artist Margaret La Ponsie hang in the Alberta House Mini Gallery.  Margaret is a world traveler and her paintings reflect both her travels and her EUP base.  This winter she was in Tanzania, so this exhibit features lions and other wildlife as well as of glaciers from a recent trip to the tip of Chile.

Meet both artists at their reception in Alberta House on Friday, July 7, from 5 to 7 p.m.  The exhibit will be in place until July 29.

Alberta House is located just half a block south of the Soo Locks, at 217 Ferris Street, and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.  Admission is free of charge.  More information and photos are available in the July “Alberta House News”, a free download on the Sault Area Arts Council website:  www.saultarts.org.

June 29, 2017

During this Fourth of July holiday weekend, the Michigan State Police is reminding motorists to make safety a priority when driving. Again this year, troopers will join their counterparts from across the country in the international traffic safety initiative, Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness and Reduction Efforts) to reduce or eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries.

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“As part of Operation C.A.R.E. and the summer-long statewide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over drunk driving crackdown, troopers will take a zero-tolerance approach to motorists who are driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, are unbelted or exhibiting other dangerous driving behaviors,” stated Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP.

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The official Fourth of July weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 1, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4.  Last year, 13 fatal traffic crashes resulted in 13 deaths over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Operation C.A.R.E. began in 1977 as a collaborative effort between the MSP and the Indiana State Police, and is one of the nation’s longest-running traffic safety initiatives. It focuses on deterring the three main causes of highway fatalities: aggressive driving, impaired driving and failure to use occupant restraints.

June 29, 2017

A draft report that analyzes possible alternatives to Enbridge Energy Partners, L.P.’s Line 5 below the Straits of Mackinac is available to the public beginning today. The preliminary report can be found at the Michigan Petroleum Pipelines website.

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A 30-day public comment period on the report developed by independent contractor Dynamic Risk Assessment Systems, Inc. opens July 6. Comments can be submitted online at the Michigan Petroleum Pipelines website, by email through the website, or by standard mail sent to Michigan Agency for Energy, Attn: Line 5 Pipeline Study, P.O. Box 30221, 7109 W. Saginaw Highway, Lansing, MI 48917. After the initial 30-day comment period, the public will have another 15 days to reply to posted comments. Read More

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In addition to the comment period, one public information session and three public feedback sessions also have been scheduled in the Lansing area, Traverse City and St. Ignace. Read More

June 27, 2017

The Fourth of July is one of America’s great landmark holidays, celebrating our nation's independence. It is also a great time to enjoy nearby forests and grasslands. However, it is vitally important that all users are aware that possessing, igniting, discharging or using any kind of fireworks is prohibited on National Forest System lands.

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"Setting off fireworks in a national forest is not only illegal, it is also a hazardous activity that can lead to injury and wildfires," said Cid Morgan, Hiawatha National Forest Supervisor. "We want folks to come out and enjoy their public lands, but please leave the fireworks at home." Morgan encourages forest visitors to check with local communities for fireworks displays.

The use or possession of fireworks on federal lands is subject to confiscation and fines of up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail. In addition, anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire may be held civilly and criminally liable for the cost of suppressing the fire.

June 26, 2017

SAULT STE. MARIE – The Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees, meeting in special session today, set tuition and fees for the 2017-2018 academic year and approved a recommendation to negotiate a contract for an interim president. Read More

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June 20, 2017

BRIMLEY — The Alaska Marine Safety Education Association (AMSEA) will offer a Fishing Vessel Drill Conductor workshop in Brimley, Michigan on Tuesday, July 11, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The workshop will meet at the Bay Mills Resort and Casinos, 11386 W. Lakeshore Drive.

This workshop is a great opportunity for commercial fishermen and other mariners to gain hands-on training with marine safety equipment and learn best practices for surviving emergencies at sea. Instructor Ronald Kinnunen will cover cold-water survival skills; EPIRBs, signal flares, and MAYDAY calls; man-overboard recovery; firefighting; immersion suits and PFDs; helicopter rescue; life rafts and abandon ship procedures; and emergency drills.

AMSEA’s Drill Conductor workshops meet the U.S. Coast Guard training requirements for Drill Conductors on documented commercial fishing vessels operating beyond the federal boundary line. This workshop is offered to commercial fishermen at no cost, thanks to support from the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. The cost is $175 for all others. Interested mariners may register online at www.amsea.org or call 907-747-3287.