Lawsuit threatened in mine dispute

MENOMINEE, Mich. (AP) — Opponents of a planned zinc and gold mine in the Upper Peninsula say they’ll sue the federal government unless it takes charge of determining whether the company will get a permit to fill wetlands.

Aquila Resources Inc. has received three of four permits it needs from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality to build the mine near the Menominee River. The department is considering the company’s application for a wetlands permit required under the federal Clean Water Act.

The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin and the environmental law firm Earthjustice say the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency should be dealing with the wetlands permit, instead of state officials.

They say they’ll file suit in 60 days if the federal agencies don’t take control.

Board of education meets Thursday

GWINN — The Gwinn Area Community Schools Board of Education will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the Gwinn Middle/High School Library to take action on possible budget reductions.

Also on the agenda are: updates on the 2016-17 audit process and 2017-18 budget process, discussion of a 2017-18 action plan that includes a deficit elimination plan and possible further reductions, and reviews of snow plow and propane bids.

Ruska pleads guilty to all counts

MARQUETTE — Eric Scott Ruska, 37, of Rumely pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to all counts of an indictment related to the June abduction and sexual assault of a 28-year-old Cooks woman.

According to court documents, Ruska pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping and three counts of aggravated sexual abuse.

No sentencing date has been set according to court officials.

Free breakfast held for veterans

MARQUETTE — Brookridge Heights Assisted Living & Memory Support, 1901 Division St., will hold a free pancake breakfast for all veterans from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday.

The event is open to veterans and their family members in recognition for their service.

Veterans Day Memorial Service set

NEGAUNEE — The Negaunee VFW Post 3165 will have a Veterans Day Memorial Service at 11 a.m. Saturday in front of Negaunee City Hall.

The public is encouraged to attend.