Bob Hendrickson, IOHT

ISHPEMING — In our last West End Update article, the GINCC highlighted a number of winter activities that are taking place outdoors with COVID prevention protocols in place.

In the up-coming weeks there will be more things to do that are family friendly and low cost.

To get started there are several events and activities coming up that we hope people will discover to have winter fun. It’s been noted that outside activities are a safer way to socialize.

With the current COVID restrictions in place events have had to adapt and modify formats to meet safety requirements. Please plan to follow COVID prevention protocols.

The Polar Roll EX winter adventure kicks off this weekend. The EX-version is where participants will have an extended timeframe to complete the course on their own accord.

The event is organized by the 906 Adventure Team and will run until March 15. Racers will navigate the course using a gpx file in their smart phone or GPS device. For more info on the event go to www.thepolarroll.com.

On Saturday, Jan. 30 the South Shore Fishing Association will be hosting the Second Annual Teal Lake Fishing Derby. Cash prizes will be offered for several categories of catches.

The derby starts at 7 a.m. and concludes at 2 p.m. Registration will be open Friday, Jan. 29 from 4-6 p.m. and day of from 6:30-10 a.m. at the Teal Lake Boat Launch in Negaunee.

For more information go to the South Shore Fishing Association’s Facebook page.

The Ishpeming Ski Club is currently working on plans to hold some version of the annual ski jumping tournament as to not break the cycle of 134 years, but this year is definitely one of the most challenging the club has faced due to COVID and low snow conditions.

Since the tournament is the biggest fundraiser for the Ishpeming Ski Club the community is asked for patience, understanding and be supportive as the club works through this. A press release will be sent out in the near future to update the public of status.

The Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce (GINCC) invites you to Discover the West End of Marquette County. Started as a social media campaign several years ago by the GINCC, Discover the West End encourages people to explore the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area and to share those experiences online using the hashtag #DiscovertheWestEnd.

To learn more about the area, visit www.visitthewestend.com or give us a call 906-486-1111.

Our office hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday and we’re located at 910 U.S. 41 West in front Jubilee Foods & Fuel.

Editor’s note: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.