The articulated tug-barge Joseph H. Thompson/Laura L. VanEnkevort was one of the first vessels of the season to arrive at the Lake Superior & Ishpeming ore dock in Marquette’s Upper Harbor, entering port at 2:13 a.m. Thursday. The Soo Locks opened at noon Wednesday, 12 hours earlier than its usual midnight opening, signaling the official start of the Great Lakes shipping season. The Great Lakes Trader/Joyce L. VanEnkevort tug-barge was the first vessel to arrive in Marquette at 2:12 a.m., moments prior to its fleetmate. Both vessels are owned by VanEnkevort Tug & Barge Inc., based in Escanaba. Originally named the Marine Robin, the Thompson was built in 1944 for service in World War II, and she was present at the invasion of Normandy. (Journal photo by Ryan Spitza)