30 years ago

MARQUETTE – More than 74 inches of snow have fallen already this season, setting the stage for downhill and cross-country skiers. “It’s been an excellent season. Mother Nature sure has been cooperating,” said Bob Epps, lift manager at Marquette Mountain. The Marquette ski hill, which opened on Nov. 17, has 17 trails open and is operating all four lifts. Typically, the hill needs manmade snow through mid-January, but snowmaking may be complete by the end of the week. Greg Hokans, executive director of the Marquette Country Convention and Visitors Bureau, said, “If we could have a solid winter for snow, the week between Christmas and New Year’s could rival any summer weekend for tourism.” Cross-country enthusiasts have also enjoyed quality skiing this season, with some trails opening as early as Thanksgiving. “It’s almost like a miracle,” said Ron Stenfors, owner of Maple Lane Archery and Ski Center. “A year ago it was all green and brown; now we probably have close to 30 inches on the ground.” Blueberry Ridge, Suicide Bowl, and Al Quaal all report good conditions on groomed trails.

90 years ago

NEGAUNEE – Ninety Christmas baskets were given needy families in Ishpeming Tuesday and Wednesday by the Salvation Army post as the result of contributions made to the Cheer fund. The Hi-Y boys, under the leadership of Ralph Silas, assisted Captain Alfred Gorton in the distribution and a truck was donated by W. Weiland to make the deliveries. The baskets this year contained chicken, roast meats, bread, oleo-margarine, coffee, sugar, milk, spaghetti, peanuts, candy, apples, onions, corn, breakfast food, preserves and vegetables. In homes where there were many children, toys collected and repaired by the Girl Scouts and the Service club were included in the baskets. “We wish to thank all those who gave donations of food and money, including private individuals, lodges, and societies who bought toys and made contributions to the kettles,” Captain Gorton said.