IronwoodInfo News Magazine

"Heikki Heikkinen"
	Subject of Free Writer's Seminar this Thursday
Date: January 20, 2009 HANCOCK - Thursday, January 22, from 4:00 to 5:30, local fiction author Lauri Anderson will discuss, "The Birth of Heikki Heikkinen." His talk will take place at the Finlandia University Chapel of St. Matthew, Hancock. The event is free and open to the public. Anderson will talk about the role models in his life who led to the creation of his recurring fictional character, Heikki Heikkinen. Anderson will also read passages from his work that are representative of Heikki's world view as a first-generation immigrant in northern Maine and the Copper Country. Anderson incorporates humor, satire, and irony in his stories of Upper Peninsula Finns. Heikki Heikkinen, for example, has his strong likes and dislikes: he loves his beer, fishing, and growing potatoes; he hates barbeque grills, his smart ass nephew from Lansing, and all the flatlanders. He especially dislikes his neighbor, Hilda Maki, whom he manages to torment even after his death. The January 22 seminar is the first of a series of seminars titled, "The Writer's Journey," in which poets, fiction and non-fiction writers, and journalists will share their work and discuss the writing process. Anderson is an English professor at Finlandia University. He is the author of multiple short-story collections, including Back to Misery Bay (2007), Impressions of Arvo Laurila (2005), Misery Bay (2001), Children of the Kalevala (1997), Heikki Heikkinen and Other Stories of Upper Peninsula Finns (1995), and Hunting Hemingway's Trout (1990). For additional information, please contact Suzanne Van Dam at 906-487-7515 or suzanne.vandam@finlandia.edu.

Local Art Student Featured in International Exhibit
International Brush Painting Exhibit Includes Work by Danielle Wilson of Iron Mountain
Date: January 19, 2009 HANCOCK - Finlandia University art and design junior Danielle "D.C." Wilson (Iron Mountain) is one of 15 artists featured in the 2008 International Sumi-E Brush Painting Contest and Exhibition organized by the Federation of American Asian Culture and Art. Her painting, "Woman and Fish" won honorable mention. The painting was sold during its premiere exhibit in Osaka, Japan. The sumi-e exhibition will also appear in Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. "When I was accepted into the show, I was very excited," said Wilson. "It was a surprise because I had never painted with sumi-e on such a large scale; the piece was my first legitimate attempt. It's the first major painting I've ever sold." The painting is of a nude woman wading in water with koi and lilypads around her, Wilson says. One fish is leaping up to her down-turned hand, and a tattoo on her hip mirrors the jumping fish. The colors of the fish and the water are complimentary and bright, and the woman's figure is warm and soft. "I drew the figure from a live model and wanted to do something traditional for my first large-scale ink painting," Wilson adds. "I was inspired by Japanese brushworks I had seen in the past; most sumi-e paintings are full of symbolism and harmony. I wanted to paint something peaceful and fluid." Wilson's piece is somewhat unique among sumi-e brushwork paintings as the subject is a nude. "I reviewed a few former entries to this particular show and I noticed that there were never nude females," Wilson says. "There were landscapes, animals, and figures, but never full body studies. I just painted what I wanted to paint and hoped that it was enjoyable. Because the work is being exhibited in Asia, I haven't had contact with many viewers, but because it was purchased I can assume that they liked it!" Wilson is an illustration major at Finlandia, but she says she has a great love of traditional painting. She expects to complete her bachelor of fine arts in 2010. At Finlandia she is involved in the BAC (Bohemian Artist Coalition) and a new tolerance club being organized by Finlandia students. She also teaches informal French lessons for Finlandia's International Club. Wilson is currently completing a children's book that will be on display at the Jutila Center Campus Reflection Gallery in the coming weeks. Like the sumi-e painting, Wilson says the children's book is in ink and watercolor. Wilson graduated from Kingsford High School. Her parents are John and Lynne Wilson of Iron Mountain, Mich. The purpose of the International Sumi-E Brush Painting Contest and Exhibition is to promote art education, and to foster the sense of beauty by encouraging submission of ink brush paintings, says the Federation of Asian Culture and Art website (www.ifacasumi-e.org). The mission of the annual contest and exhibition is to advance international cultural exchange to help to build a better and more harmonious global community. For additional information, please contact Yueh-mei Cheng, associate professor of studio arts, at 906-487-7375 or yueh-mei.cheng@finlandia.edu.

Western U.P. Health Department

Advises Peanut Butter Products Recalled

For More Information
Contact: Lynne Madison, R.S.,
Director, Environmental Health Division
Phone: 482-7382
Fax: 482-9410

Red Devils Down North Central 340-90

file photo above Ironwood team winning the Regional Quiz Bowl Competition at GCC on Oct 30th, 2008

Marquette - January 18, 2009

Last night local viewers got watch Ironwood the Red Devils initial 2009 entry to the High School Bowl. The Red Devils drew a bye in the first round as did the Gladiators of Ontonagon. Last nights game actually took place a month ago. All the WMNUTV 13 games are taped approximately one month prior to airing.

The competition for Ironwood was the Jets from North Central. The Jets won their round one game against Mid-Peninsula 120-80. That would be the Jets last victory for the tournament as the Red Devils beat the Jets 340-90. The members of the Ironwood team competing in the match included Andrea Klumpp, Cole Aukee, Emily Niemi and Team Captain Liz Perkis.

The match was almost a "one women game" according to show host G.G.Gordon with Red Devil Liz Purkis tackling most of the questions.

While the Ironwood Red Devils are in the hunt for their first High School Bowl Championship, Liz Perkis could be in the hunt for the Dave Goldsmith Scholarship, although the first round bye might be damaging. Zac Johnson from Hancock and Cort Lanczy from Westwood are also in the running for the scholarship.

Speaking of Westwood's Lanczy. Last week the Hurley Midgets got to meet Cort up close in a match where Hurley fell to Westwood 260-90 in a second round game. Hurley also drew a bye in the first round. The Midgets were the 2006 High School Bowl Champions.

In perhaps the most exciting game of the season so far was the match between Watersmeet and Wakefield. In their match the Nimrods jumped out front of the Cardinals 80-10. Watersmeet held a 120-40 lead at the half. Not giving up the Cardinals tied the game at 120 and went on to take the lead 140-130 over the Nimrods. With just 1 minutes to go Watersmeet broke a 150 tie and went ahead 160-150. The Nimrods outlasted the Cardinals taking the match 180-150.

The Panthers of Ewen Trout Creek, won their first round game against Pickford 160-120. Unfortunately for the Panthers they had to play the Gremlins from Houghton, last years champion. The Gremlins eliminated the Panthers 250-150.

The Gladiators from Ontonagon defeated Bessemer in a second round match. Bessemer won their first round match against Sault Ste Marie 160 - 120.

Begin a Writer's Journey this Year

HANCOCK - The Finlandia University English Department invites the public to a series of free writing seminars beginning January 22.

The weekly seminars, collectively titled, "The Writer's Journey" will take place Thursday afternoons from 4:00 to 5:30 at the Chapel of St. Matthew, Hancock.

In an encouraging and intellectually challenging environment, "The Writer's Journey" seminar-goers will interact with professional writers about literature and the world of ideas.

Poets, fiction and non-fiction writers, and journalists will share their work and discuss the writing process, literary craft, and publishing.

Following an introductory seminar January 15, on January 22 popular local fiction author Lauri Anderson will discuss, "The Birth of Heikki Heikkinen."

Other writers include Katie Alvord, author of "Divorce Your Car," on January 29, and on February 2 (the only seminar on a Monday), Suzanne Strempek Shea, author of "Sundays in America: Writing about a Yearlong Road Trip in Search of Christian Faith."

Also in February, Rekha Ambardar, author of "His Harbor Girl" and "Maid to Order," among other novels, will discuss popular fiction February 5. On February 12 Lake Linden High School English and history teacher Earl Brogan will speak about poetry. Visit www.finlandia.edu for a complete list of seminar presenters.

The Writer's Journey may also be taken for academic credit. Students may register for the Spring 2009 one-credit class, English 203, until January 20. Grading is on a pass/fail basis.

For additional information, please contact Suzanne Van Dam at 906-487-7515 or suzanne.vandam@finlandia.edu.

Free Blood Pressure Checks Begin Today

Date: January 20, 2009

HANCOCK, MI - Beginning Tuesday, January 20, 2009, and continuing each Tuesday and Thursday morning from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. until mid-April, senior-level Finlandia University nursing students will be performing free blood pressure checks at Finlandia's Paavo Nurmi Center gymnasium.

The blood pressure checks are offered in conjunction with the indoor walking program sponsored by the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department.

For additional information, please contact Rachelle Bachran at 906-482-7382, ext. 189.

UPPCO Issues Warning!

Peninsula Power Company For Release: 01/19/2009 UPPCO Warns of Dangerously High Snowbanks

*Houghton, MI“

This year's snowfall has made it hard to find a place to store all the snow that keeps accumulating and accumulating. One place you DON'T want to pile it is under electric power lines, says Upper Peninsula Power Company. Snow piled up under the lines and around power poles may create a ramp that attracts children and allows them to get dangerously close to the lines and other equipment that are usually safely above their heads.

How close is too close?

UPPCO says stay at least 10 feet away from all distribution lines and 20 feet away from transmission lines. (Simply put, the distribution lines are the smaller lines serving neighborhoods within communities; transmission lines are the larger lines that carry power cross-country or between communities.) It's also important to stay at least 10 feet away from the service line that carries power from the pole to your home or business.

Wherever possible, UPPCO also asks that customers keep the area around their electric meters clear of snow so that the meter readers have access to them. A clear path also shows the meter readers what route you want them to take when they're on your property. Of course, UPPCO does not expect customers to clear such a path if doing so is physically difficult or could aggravate medical problems. While any time is a good time for parents and teachers to caution children about the dangers that exist around electric power lines and equipment, at this time of year and under these snow conditions that conversation becomes even more important.

For More Information, Contact: * Janet Wolfe Communications Manager 906-483-4528 jwolfe@uppco.com * UPPCO Customer Service 800-562-7680

Tyyne Torni Celebrates 92nd Birthday

Family and friends gathered together at Josephson's Nursing Home Saturday to celebrate Tyyne Torni's 92nd Birthday.

Fund for Nottke Family
Established at Miner's State Bank

January 17, 2009 10:48 AM

HANCOCK - A bank account for Janine and Randy Nottke has been established at Miner's State Bank, in Houghton and Ripley, to accept monetary donations to help the family as they recover from the loss of their home to fire.

The Nottke family lost their Painesdale home to fire January 8. Janine and Randy, and their son Chris, were not at home when the fire began. There were no injuries. Reports indicate that the house is a total loss.

"The Finlandia community was saddened to hear this news and will do everything possible to come alongside Janine and her family at this difficult time," said Finlandia President Philip Johnson.

For nearly 20 years, Janine Nottke has worked in Purchasing and Facilities Management at Finlandia University.

To assist Janine and her family in this time of need, monetary donations may be made directly to the Miner's State Bank account, or directed to the Human Resources Department at Finlandia.

For additional information, please contact Ann Testini, Finlandia University director of human resources, at 906-487-7361 or ann.testini@finlandia.edu.

EDC Puts Administrator Search on Hold

Ontonagon - January 16, 2009 The Ontonagon Economic Development Corporation met in a regular session Wednesday. The Board members as previously reported spent a large portion of the meeting discussing the hazards or lack thereof associated with coal piles on the EDC dock. The board re-elected it current officers: President, Sue Preiss Vice-President Rick Miskovich Secretary Dawayne Holtz Treasurer Ray Maki
The current committees were also retained for 2009
Revolving Loan Fund Committee: Amos, Kermeen, Miskovich, alternate:Sliger Fund Raising Committee: Holtz, Schultz, Preiss Finance (Budget) Committee: Amos, Preiss, Holtz, Maki Strategic Planning Committee: Sliger, Miskovich, Amos, Kermeen Tourism Committee: Schultz, Kermeen, Holtz, alternate:Maki
R
The Board voted to retain the State Bank of Ewen as its depository. The Place and time for the E.D.C meetings also remains unchanged. The resignation of Mary Smith last month has left the E.D.C. searching for an administrator. The Employment search has received applications from ten job seekers which includes the application from E.D.C. board member Skip Schultz
At Wednesday's meeting Schultz suggested that the board should consider an individual with sales skills as opposed to "letter writing skills". Schultz pointed out that every town, city and county are in the same boat, chasing the same potential businesses for their area. Schultz believes that face to face salesmanship is required to sell the area rather than mailing out a photo of Bond Falls, with a letter saying this is why you you should move your business here.
Fred Sliger found support from fellow board members when he suggested that the executive committee draw up a guideline on what kind of an administrator they want. The executive committee will continue drawing up the new guidelines and continue the search for the administrator. A member of the audience stated concerns over the delay caused by the sudden change of direction. The concern centered around the potential occupancy of the ship yard building by an unidentified interested entity. Evidently, the village, county and state are courting a company that is has narrowed down its interest to a location in Louisiana and the Ontonagon location. Evidently, the board members were not concerned that an E.D.C. administrator would not be available to represent the county.

Paulson: "Coal Pile Not a Threat!"

Ontonagon - January 15, 2009 A pile of coal weighing 5,000 tons and approximately eight feet high was the center of attention at last night's Board meeting of the Ontonagon Economic Development Corporation. Brian Paulson, of Upper Lakes Coal, made a presentation to the board of directors regarding the pile of coal that's been sitting on the E.D.C. dock. Mr. Paulson described the coal as one of the worse deliveries he has ever received. That being said, Paulson went on to tell the board that he was there to dispel rumors that the coal pile posed a fire hazard.
Brian Paulson explained that the the coal in question was low Sulfur 1.1 Eastern Coal . There could be a higher risk of combustion if the coal was 1.6 Sulfur Western Coal. The 1.6 high sulfur coal would be desirable to businesses wishing to save on the cost of the fuel. The north side coal pile is still sitting on the dock because it is being mixed with new coal at a ratio of approximately 10%.
The 48,000 ton coal pile on the south side of the dock has sitting longer than usual due to the fact that White Pine Electric stopped buying coal last August. The power plant will be back up soon and if it comes up at just 50% capacity the coal pile will be gone by June. However, that will depend on the weather as the coal must be dry. Paulson told the board that if and when a hot spot occurs the coal is scooped up, segregated and smothered. Mr. Paulson went on to discuss other matters relevant to the E.D.C. dock. He suggested that the fee for dock space should be re-initiated each year. This would eliminate cargo from staying on the Dock for too long.

Meltdown at Smurfit-Stone

Smurfit-Stone Container Company, has reportedly hired a law firm and financial advisors with expertise in bankruptcy filings. Michael Mullin, a spokesman for Smurfit-Stone, declined to comment.

Ontonagon - January 16, 2009

Upper Peninsula residents and investors have come nose to nose with the Global Economy Meltdown this week. When the shares of Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation plunged to its 52 week low. Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation is one of the country's largest makers of cardboard boxes and has operations in several states across the U.S. Including a plant in Ontonagon.

As the manufacturer of board boxes, the company is largely dependent on retail sales to drive demand for the packaging it makes for consumer goods.

The global economic recession is reducing demand for paper used to make containers for industrial and consumer goods, spurring concern that Smurfit-Stone won't be able to repay or refinance debt maturing this year. The company may file for bankruptcy imminently, Gimme Credit, a New York-based provider of fixed-income research, said yesterday.

The company reported in December that it expects "significantly lower" earnings for the fourth quarter because demand had weakened dramatically. At the end of the third quarter, the company reported debt of $3.57 billion.

Bankruptcy rumors were swirling Thursday after a Wall Street Journal report indicating that Smurfit-Stone could file for federal bankruptcy protection.

Smurfit-Stone Container Corp. plunged the most ever in Nasdaq trading on speculation that North America's second-largest maker of corrugated packaging may file for bankruptcy amid falling demand and upcoming debt repayments.

Chicago-based Smurfit-Stone told lenders it could file for bankruptcy as it suffers weakening sales and a shortage of cash, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing people familiar with the matter.

A bankruptcy could mean bad news for common shareholders as they could receive little to nothing back on their investment once management seeks court protection from creditors.

All three major rating agencies trimmed their outlook on Smurfit-Stone today.

Smurfit-Stone shares slid 30 cents, or 83 percent, to 6 cents on the Nasdaq stock market. The drop was the biggest since the shares began trading in May 1994. The shares fell 98 percent last year.

Stock prices tumbled more than 86% from 36 cents a share to just 6 cents, down considerably from a high of just under $10 this past year.

UPPCO to Hold Second Public
Meeting on Au Train Dam Options

Houghton, MI - Upper Peninsula Power Company, a subsidiary of Integrys Energy Group (NYSE: TEG), has scheduled its second informational meeting to discuss options for its Au Train dam. In September, the company announced that its conceptual plans for complying with Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) requirements were not approved, and it has been working toward a solution since that time.

The informational meeting will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, at the Au Train Township Hall. UPPCO representatives will present additional information gathered since the September public meeting, answer questions, and collect public comments.

"In September, we promised to come back to Au Train with an update before we made any decisions," said Keith Moyle, UPPCO's Vice President and General Manager. "We're still interested in public input as part of our decision-making process."

For More Information, Contact:

* Greg Egtvedt
Manager - Environmental Assets & Licensing
920-433-5713
gwegtvedt@integrysgroup.com

* UPPCO Customer Service
800-562-7680

Township to Pursue Insurance Alternatives

Ironwood Township - January 13, 2009 Last evening the Ironwood township board of trustees met in a regularly scheduled meeting at the Township Hall.
On hand to discuss the Township’s Health Insurance program was Vincent W. Babcock, CBC representing Employee Benefits Agency, Inc. From Marquette, MI. Mr. Babcock explained to the board several ways that the Township might save money on its Hospitalization Program. Vince explained that the savings might be gained through a change to another Blue Cross Plan. As an example Blue Cross has many plans, from B1 to B17. The township might be in a position to switch to another plan with a larger deductible and lesser coverage. In conjunction with such a plan the Township would maintain its current level of coverage by buying back the deductible. This could be accomplished by the township paying the self insurance portion itself or possibly buying stop loss coverage similar to Quack Quack!
The cost and benefits of such a plan can only be considered after the receipt of a claims experience analysis. The claims experience can only be obtained, according Babcock, by designating the Employee Benefits Agency as Broker of Record. A couple of board members were familiar with Employee Benefits Insurance and recommended that the Township move forward and name Employee Benefits as their Broker of Record. The board voted unanimously to go forward with the risk evaluation. The Township currently, pays between $60,000 to $80,000 for Health Insurance Benefits. Should the loss experience prove favorable a premium savings might well be expected. The Board discussed the need to refinish the Gymnasium floor at the Township Hall. The bid from Gina Paylin of Hurley was $6,945. The bid included a $3,000 credit for defective paint used in the previous refinishing project. The bid was accepted by a unanimous vote.
The board reviewed the annual Fire Pump Preventative Maintenance and Certification inspection performed by “The Car Doctor” from Ashland. The inspection results were sent to Former Fire Chief Ron Clemens. On hand to discuss the findings of the report was newly appointed Fire Chief Jamie Peite. Chief Peite, pictured on right, advised the board that all of the issues mentioned in the inspection report had been corrected and were done so at no cost to the Township.
In other action the board considered communication received earlier in the day from Ironwood City Manager, Scott Erickson. Erickson asked that the board consider reducing the city's outstanding water bill. The $7,500 indebtedness is due the Township for water purchased from the Township by the Civic Center. The Township has already credited the city for the $12,000 portion of the bill attributed to the Township's overhead associated with distribution of the water. See Related Story Below.

Township Board Stands Pat
on "Pat" Water Bill

Ironwood's version of Frick and Frack (Scott Erickson and Bruce Noren) are at it again! This time they want the township to forgive half of the $7,500 water bill owed to the township by the Civic Center. The bill is long, long past due, dating as far back to 2005.

Now to be sure some Imo Limo will try and pass the blame back to the Township. Let's be clear right up front, that this is a legitimate bill. While it may be hard to believe that the city could be so stupid as to put itself in this position it has done exactly that!

The Civic Center is owned by the city. Si?

The Civic Center is in the Township. Also Si.

However, the water comes to the Civic Center through the Township water system. The Township must purchase the water from Ironwood and then sell it back to the Civic Center.

Yes, that's it! The city sells the water and then buys it back..... So you can, sort of, maybe, almost clearly get the picture.

The city sold the water in question to the Township. The Township paid for the water. Then the Township sold the water back to the city, and then the city failed to pay for it.
In other words, we’re not talking about expenses incurred for services rendered or to be rendered, but rather the actual cost of the water sold to the Township. The city is flagrantly try to renege on its debt.

Last night at the city council meeting a dog and pony show was put on for the benefit of some people who do not yet recognize the extent of the city's poor management skills. Last night the show started with some uninformed person stating that the Township has billing issues. It really isn’t a billing issue. It’s a failure to pay a just debt issue. After hearing this weak excuse from the Civic Center, the council decided to ask the Township to forgo half the overdue account. If that decision was made last night to offer an amount less than its indebtedness, then why was it presented to the Township several hours earlier in the day?

Is Noren still micro managing the city contrary to the rules within the City Charter?

Perhaps the city manager took it upon himself to offer a deal that he could not and would not deliver.

What's that saying "when you practice to deceive?" Hmm!

Why should the Township give the city a credit on this long overdue delinquent bill?

Just last summer the Township was heavily indebted to the City because of a broken water pipe at the Lake Road Mobile Home Park. The resulting loss of water was costly and the Township asked for some credit to mitigate the damages. The city told the Township taxpayers to scratch off.

The city went on once again to raise the Township’s water fees an unconscionable 9%. Just one year ago Brucie Noren told the city council that it didn't matter that over 100,000 gallons of water a day were lost through leaks in the city's aged water system. While Noren may seem to want it "both ways" He's the type of a guy who always wants it one way, "his way".

Again last year Noren tried to overcharge the Township Taxpayers for services of the public library. If it hadn't been for more rational heads on the library board the city would now be without the $40,000 plus in fees it receives from the Township Taxpayers. Now Noren is trying to wiggle out of the city's delinquent water bill.

We all know that in the past two years the city of Ironwood has done little to gain the confidence of the city or for that matter the city's neighbors. The city has managed its finances poorly for some time but now there's a lack of honesty and integrity as well.

Just this past summer, we learned that the city has not yet claimed grant money already approved by the DNR, money that has been sitting in Lansing for years just waiting for Ironwood to ask for the check. We also learned that the city had yet resolve the title on land that it had purchased through a clandestine scheme to bypass state regulations on municipal borrowing.

Two years ago the city committed $12,000 to the new skateboard park and now it is doing everything it can to avoid living up to its promise to the kids of Ironwood. Because of the scheme previously discussed, the city was rejected for a DNR grant for the Skateboard Park. The DNR will however, backdoor a much smaller grant for the park. There is a loss of over $40,000 on the original skateboard park funding request. Once again income lost because of poor management at city hall.

In the past two years we have lost or will surely lose the two biggest water customers all because of management mistakes that should not have occurred. The city will lose Hurley's quarter of a million per year plus the Township’s Ninety-Thousand plus per year water purchases. All lost because of indifference and poor, poor management. The Noren government has cost the city taxpayers plenty and will continue to do so in the future.
Read More on Monday's City Council Show

Hancock - January 12, 2009

An exhibit titled "Transforming the Cutover" by artist Carl Gawboy is featured at the Finlandia University Gallery, located in the Finnish American Heritage Center (FAHC), Hancock, January 8 to February 13, 2009.

An opening reception for the artist will take place at gallery Thursday, January 22, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., with an artist talk beginning at 7:15 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Gawboy's opening reception is part of a special event at the FAHC dubbed, "Indigenous Night." On the same evening, at 6:00 p.m., Sámi scholars Faith Fjeld and Nathan Muus will present a program about the Alaska Reindeer Project of the late 1890s. An exhibit exploring the Reindeer Project is also on display at the Heritage Center.

"Transforming the Cutover" is on display at the Finlandia University Gallery through February 13.

The Finlandia University Gallery is in the Finnish American Heritage Center, 435 Quincy Street, Hancock. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., or by appointment. Please call 906-487-7500 for more information.

Porcupine Mountain State Park - January 12, 2009

Cross country skiers had their second opportunity to go night skiing this year at Porcupine Mountain State Park.

Old fashion kerosene lanterns illuminated the entired cross country trail which measures one mile long. Skiers are able to stop half way on this one mile trail where they can rest and warm up at the warming shelter and the blazing fire. The trail has a difficulty rating of "EASY".

Saturday evening offered a rare opportunity to ski on the trail illuminated not only by the kerosene lanterns but also lit by the first full moon of 2009.

Not to be denied this opportunity, IronwoodInfo Bureau Chief Linda Graham took to the trail. Linda a season veteran of trails and runs reported that the night ski was very enjoyable and was attended by several skiers. Linda also confirmed that the trail was indeed easy to handle as indicated by the Park Officials.

The trail will be open on the 17th, 24th, and 31st of January. It will also offer night skiing on February 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th of February. The program can be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. You can make inquiry into such eventualities by calling 906-885-5206.

photo above IronwoodInfo Bureau Chief Linda Graham (left) and Carol Harry (right) pause to warm up at fire pit located at the half way mark along the one mile trail.

The program is free; however all motor vehicles entering a MIchigan State Park or recreation area must displaya valid Motor Vehicle Permit. Permits are available to purchase at the park entrance. Residents can purchase an annual pass for $24. or a daily pass for $6. Non-residents can purchase an annual pass for $29. and a daily pass for $8.

Intellectual Properties Controversies

Houghton - January 12, 2009

"Intellectual Properties Controversies"

The term intellectual property has been in the news over the last decade in issues ranging from experiencing art to writing term papers.

MTU's Great Events Series will be presenting a three-day event that will bring four different speakers to explore various, and sometimes controversial, aspects of
intellectual property.

With international, national, and local speakers, this event will culminate in a four-person panel designed to present various points of view through spirited debate. Audience members are encouraged to attend each panelist's individual lecture and come prepared with questions for the question and answer period afterwards.

Moderated by Michael G. Bennett, who is the Andrew W. Mellon Research
Fellow in the Science, Technology, and Society Program at Vassar College
and a consultant in intellectual property matters, nano technology
research and development, and professional engineering and legal ethics.

When & Where: Thursday, January 22nd, 7:30 pm at the Rozsa Center
Friday, January 23rd, 5:00 pm, at the Rozsa Center

Saturday, January 24th, 7:30 pm, at the Rozsa Center

Doors open 1/2 hour before show time. The panel discussion is open to all and is offered free without any charge.

Free. Open to all.

*Sponsored by:*
Sponsored by the Van Evera Distinguished Lecture Series Endowment along with the School of Business and Economics, the Department of Humanities, the Department of Social Sciences and the J. Robert Van Pelt and the Opie Library.

U.S. 2 Crash Injures Two

Ironwood - January 10, 2009

At 1:00 pm this afternoon two motorist were injured in a two car crash which occured just east of Wal-Mart on U.S. 2. Both motorist were taken by ambulance to Grandview Hospital. The two cars one an S.U.V. and one a small pick up truck were traveling west when the crash occurred. The identities of the motorist were nor their condition were available.

The State Police and County Sheriff officers were on the scene tending to the crash and the injured parties. Also at the scene was an IDPS officer who was directing traffic at the corner of Country Club Road and U.S. 2.

Water Main Break Update #4

Date: 01/09/09

UPDATE #4

10:20 a.m………The water situation in the City of Ironwood remains unchanged at this time. Two tanker trucks of potable water are being delivered this morning. The water will be available for residents at the Ironwood Public Safety Department after 12 noon.

The American Red Cross is providing bottled water to some nursing home and some public housing.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Due to a water main break in the City of Ironwood, most city residents are either without water or are experiencing low water pressure. The City of Ironwood’s water system is also critically low. Because of this, the City is strongly encouraging residents to conserve water at this time.

At approx. 9:06 p.m. last night, a large water leak was discovered on Lake Street south of US2 in Ironwood. City personnel have been working on the break throughout the night. The Ironwood Public Safety Department and the Ironwood Volunteer Fire Department are also assisting with the minor flooding issues.

Residents that are in emergency need of water can come to the Ironwood Public Safety Department at 123 W. McLeod Avenue. If possible, bring a container with you for water. If you are unable to leave your home, you may contact the department at 906-932-1234 and department members will deliver water to your home.

Public restrooms are also available at the Ironwood Public Safety Department and at the Ironwood Memorial Building at 213 S. Marquette Street.

The American Red Cross is also assisting the City of Ironwood.

At this time, the City does not have an estimate of when water will be restored.

Gogebic County has declared a local state of emergency due to the water leak.

A temporary EOC (Emergency Operations Center) has been located at the I.P.S. Building.

Gogebic County Commissioners Hold First Meeting of 2009

Bessemer - January 7, 2009 Last evening the Gogebic County Board of Commissioners held a special organizational meeting for 2009. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Gerry Pelissero Clerk of Court, administered the Oath of Office to the incoming Board of Commissioners. The board then commenced with the organizational meeting. READ MORE
Listen to Audio of Meeting

Ontonagon Flower Committee
Seeks Volunteers

Ontonagon - January 9, 2009

The Downtown Ontonagon Development Agency met in regular session yesterday.

The D.D.A. announced that the volunteer gardening group (pictured above) which plants the downtown flower planters is looking for help with plantings around the VA Memorial and other sites. The group of volunteers is headed up by Betty Porter and includes the staff of IronwoodInfo. If you would like to help in this worthwhile endeavor you should contact Betty in the spring.

The board announced the availability of facade grants for downtown town businesses within the development district. According to the village manager, the D.D.A. is making available 50/50 grants up to $1,500. In other words if a business owner invests $1,500 they can receive a match of an equal amount from the D.D.A.. The grants are but one part of a two part program. The second part of the program is a low interest loan which can be used in conjunction with the grant. The loan has an interest rate of 2% below the prime rate and a maximum principal of $3,500.

Read More on the 2008 Spring Planting

Gogebic - Ontonagon November Unemployment Rates Increase

January 6, 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth reports that November Unemployment Rates Increase in Nearly All of Michigan's Regional Labor Markets Rates Up Significantly Over the Year in All Areas.

Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties had large increases in their unemployment numbers. However, of the 83 market areas included in the unemployment data, Gogebic County had an unemployment rate of 9.8% which ranked ranked 34th. Ontonagon County had an unemployment rate of 9.9% and ranked 35th. READ MORE

MICHIGAN COUNTIES RANKED BY UNEMPLOYMENT RATE NOV. 2008
Rank	County	u/e %	Rank		u/e %
1	Washtenaw County	6.0	43	Benzie County	10.2
2	Isabella County	6.1	44	Lenawee County	10.3
3	Clinton County	6.3	45	Kalkaska County	10.4
4	Leelanau County	6.5	46	Lapeer County	10.5
5	Kalamazoo County	6.7	47	Wayne County	10.6
6	Midland County	6.7	48	Mason County	10.6
7	Barry County	7.2	49	Chippewa County	10.6
8	Menominee County	7.2	50	Osceola County	10.7
9	Marquette County	7.4	51	Ogemaw County	10.7
10	Kent County	7.4	52	Crawford County	10.8
11	Livingston County	7.5	53	Shiawassee County	11.0
12	Eaton County	7.5	54	Luce County	11.2
13	Ottawa County	7.7	55	Alger County	11.2
14	Oakland County	7.7	56	Tuscola County	11.4
15	Ingham County	7.7	57	Iosco County	11.5
16	Cass County	8.0	58	Hillsdale County	11.5
17	Houghton County	8.1	59	Genesee County	11.6
18	Dickinson County	8.2	60	Missaukee County	11.7
19	Grand Traverse County	8.2	61	Otsego County	11.8
20	Allegan County	8.3	62	Montcalm County	11.8
21	Bay County	8.4	63	St. Clair County	11.8
22	Calhoun County	8.4	64	Sanilac County	12.0
23	Berrien County	8.8	65	Oceana County	12.1
24	Mecosta County	9.1	66	Roscommon County	12.1
25	Van Buren County	9.1	67	Schoolcraft County	12.2
26	Ionia County	9.2	68	Antrim County	12.5
27	Saginaw County	9.2	69	Gladwin County	12.7
28	Delta County	9.5	70	Alcona County	12.8
29	Branch County	9.6	71	Emmet County	12.8
30	Macomb County	9.6	72	Charlevoix County	12.9
31	Monroe County	9.6	73	Clare County	12.9
32	Jackson County	9.6	74	Wexford County	13.0
33	St. Joseph County	9.7	75	Arenac County	13.3
34	Gogebic County	9.8	76	Lake County	13.9
35	Ontonagon County	9.9	77	Cheboygan County	14.3
36	Newaygo County	10.0	78	Presque Isle County	14.4
37	Iron County	10.0	79	Keweenaw County	14.5
38	Alpena County	10.0	80	Oscoda County	14.8
39	Gratiot County	10.0	81	Baraga County	16.2
40	Muskegon County	10.0	82	Montmorency County	16.9
41	Huron County	10.0	83	Mackinac County	19.0
42	Manistee County	10.1

Life in a Nano Second

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