From left, Patrick Andrews, Ellyse Wolfrath, Ahna Larson, Kalina Ceglinski and Mia Strazny of Northern Michigan University’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee deliver stuffed animals to The Mining Journal on Monday. The toys are a part of the 2024 Christmas Cheer Club. (Journal photo by Justin Marietti) The Cheer Club, which kicked off Nov. 22, collects unwrapped toys and gifts to be donated to local children and families in need during the holiday season. Gifts are distributed to local families through St. Vincent de Paul and The Salvation Army of Marquette County. Those interested in getting involved with the Cheer Club are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys to The Mining Journal office in downtown Marquette during business hours, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Northern Michigan University mascot Wildcat Willy uses his stick to look at and pick up a few of the many stuffed animals that were thrown on the Berry Events Center ice surface for the Teddy Bear Toss held between periods of the NMU and Ferris State hockey game held Friday night, Dec. 6, 2024. The toys will be contributed to the area Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul for Christmas. (Journal photo by Caden Sierra)