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

30 years ago

GWINN — More than 100 Forsyth Township residents turned out Saturday, ignoring cold temperatures and the inevitable tired feet to trek 17 miles for a good cause. This was the ninth year for the spring walk, which is sponsored by pledges from area residents, earmarked for a neighbor in need of assistance. “Paul Ketola invited me to go for a spring walk one year,” said Bill Meni, one of the organizers. “He and some of his friends have made this walk every year starting 25 years ago. But when he asked me to join him, I said if we’re going for the pain, we’re going for the gain.” Each year, the donations have surpassed the year before. The first year about $1,000 was raised; last year $13,000 was the final total. “We’re the U.P.’s answer to President Bush’s ‘thousand points of light,” Meni joked. Our Own Bakery, makers of Bunny Bread, and Gwinn area business donated donuts and beverages consumed by walkers during the three-hour hike on County Road 557 between Tall Timbers grocery store near Little Shag Lake and Arnold. Beneficiaries of proceeds must be without other means of assistance such as insurance, and must have an immediate need for help. This year, Oscar Barrett of Gwinn was chosen to receive the funds to defray medical expenses for an illness he doesn’t want publicized. It will be two weeks before the money is tallied.

60 years ago

ISHPEMING — Two cents made the difference when the city council awarded a contract to Reliable Clothing Store for fire department uniforms this week. The $2,400 contract, provided for in the 1960 capital outlay budget, was awarded to Reliable Clothing on a bid of $53.50 per uniform. Second lowest bidder was the J.C. Penney Co. with a bid of $53.52. The bids were studied by a committee of volunteer firemen, the fire chief, and City Manager, Thomas R. McNabb. The council concurred in its recommendation.