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

30 years ago

AUTRAIN — The U.S. Forest Service will hold a grand opening of its new AuTrain Song Bird Walking Trail Saturday, May 20. The dedication begins at 10 a.m., but “early-birders” are invited to attend as early as 6 a.m., according to Munising District Ranger Jim Bruce. The trail, thought to be the first of its kind, is a two-mile loop near the AuTrain Campground, six miles south of AuTrain. The forest service will provide binoculars, a bird identification guidebook and cassette player with tape describing the birds and their songs. Many birds along the trail will answer back when their songs are played. The trail is the result of a partnership among the forest service, AuTrain Visitor’s Association and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It will be open through the fall, and the forest service plans to construct a wildlife observation platform later this summer. No fee will be charged for use of equipment May 20. During the season, A&L and AuTrain grocery stores will provide equipment for a $10 deposit, $8 of which will be refunded. The $2 charge covers cost of materials.

60 years ago

ISHPEMING – Dr. W.A. Corcoran, city health officer, announced today that Ishpeming residents can obtain free rat poison at the health department in about 10 days. He urged residents to use the poison to improve sanitary conditions in Ishpeming as part of the clean-up drive being conducted this week in preparation for Michigan Week activities May 17-23. He said the poison is not harmful to other animals or children and advised them to scatter small bait in runways and places infested with rats and rodents. He encouraged residents to clean up their premises because old buildings, rubbish piles and garbage provide a haven for rats and rodents and create a health problem. He also urged residents to keep tight covers on garbage cans. The move is the latest in a campaign by the Women’s Civic League to clean streets and alleys and give Ishpeming a touch of spring. The league also is urging merchants to place flowers in front of their stores and to arrange attractive window displays.