30 years ago

CHOCOLAY TOWNSHIP – Guy Wallace, 13, of Harvey, displayed a rare copy of “Trout Madness,” one of the late John Voelker’s most popular books about trout fishing. Wallace received the book from Voelker’s grandson, John Overturf of Marquette, along with a membership in the John Voelker Foundation. The book is one of only 300 published since Voelker’s death using his real name instead of his pen name, Robert Traver. Wallace was recognized by the foundation for his love of fishing, which is helping him battle a rare liver cancer.

60 years ago

SANDS TOWNSHIP – Officials of rural Sands Township had an idea to make a full-fledged Red Cross rescue unit so its 1,600 inhabitants no longer need worry if help will be available in time of trouble. Clarence Yelle, township supervisor, first voiced the idea of a rescue unit. Other township officers, Hilma Munson, clerk; Natalie Henderson, treasurer; and trustees Gerald Contois and John Flodin agreed, and a course of action was set. With limited funds, the board gradually acquired a fire engine, followed by an ambulance, resuscitator, stretchers and other first aid equipment. Jack Messenger of Marquette, a Red Cross instructor, offered to give classes in first aid and rescue work. Volunteers crowd into the Sands town hall once a week to get the latest instructions on first aid in a 10-week course. Earl Yelle, township fire and squad leader, is assisted by John and George Noel, Toivo Hendrickson, Lee Roy Vickers, Eugene Pleaugh, Clarence Yelle, Arthur Tousignant, Gene Pleaugh and Richard Miller. The Sands Township Red Cross rescue squad can be reached by phone.

Superiorland Yesterdays is prepared by the reference staff at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.