EDITOR’S NOTE: Superiorland Yesterdays is prepared by the reference staff at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.

30 years ago

MARQUETTE — Motorists responded to the first operation of a downtown traffic signal with a bang Monday morning, but soon got into the new flow of things. “We turned the light on at 9, and there was an accident at 9:01,” said Mike Etelamaki, the city’s director of public works. The new stop-and-go signal at the intersection of McClellan Avenue and Washington Street completes the extension of McClellan, which opened to traffic this winter with a flashing light for traffic control. Monday’s accident was only a “fender-bender” that caused no injuries. Police Capt. Orville Dishno said no other mishaps were reported at the intersection during opening day. In a noon-hour survey by The Mining Journal, several motorists appeared unaware the signal was operating. Etelmaki said he expects a period of adjustment since traffic habits are hard to change. Police will closely watch the intersection for several weeks, Dishno said.

60 years ago

NEGAUNEE — Sponsored by the sophomore class of St. Paul’s High School, the first Valentine Sweetheart dance will be Thursday, Feb. 13 in the school gymnasium. In connection with the dance, St. Paul’s “Sweetheart” will be chosen who, in turn, will crown “Everyone’s Sweetheart.” Candidates for the title, selected by a vote of boys in each class, are: seniors, Doris Miljour; juniors, Charlene Barabe; sophomores, Rita Miljour; and freshmen, Barbara Patierno. The affair will be semi-formal.