The replica mine shaft headframe structure is seen on Teal Lake. (Photo courtesy of Bridge Michigan)

NEGAUNEE — Kathy Miller of Crystal Falls is the winner of the 2026 Teal Lake Melt-Down.

The headframe structure went through the ice at 1:21 p.m. on Monday. The prize amount of $5,439 was won with a winning entry of 1:14 p.m. April 27, 2026.

The Teal Lake Melt-Down is a community fundraiser benefiting the Negaunee Lions Club and their many community projects. Community members purchased tickets to enter the contest with their estimate of when the headframe would break through the ice with the winner being the closest entry to the exact time. The deadline for this year’s ticket sales was April 1.

The Negaunee Lions Club would like to thank their sponsors and all of the community members who purchased tickets. This is the tenth year that the Negaunee Lions Club has held this fundraiser, and the first year that the prize has topped $5,000.