Congratulations to the newest members of the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame, who will be inducted this evening during a ceremony in the Northern Center Ballroom on Northern Michigan University’s campus.

Stu Skauge, a longtime member of the Michigan Education Association; United Steelworkers member Tommy Spencer; and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees member Shana Thornton will be joining legendary labor names like Dominic Jacobetti, Mike Prusi, and Geraldine Defant as members of the hall.

According to a U.P. Regional Labor Federation release: “The inductees are being recognized for their lifelong dedication to improving the lives of working men and women in the Upper Peninsula.”

Tonight’s ceremony will include tributes from the offices of U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, as well Gov. Gretchen Whitmer as well as personal tributes will be offered by State Sen. Ed McBroom-38th District and State Rep. Sara Cambensy-109th District.

Skauge, Spencer and Thornton have done much through the years to make life better for other residents of the U.P., not just with their union activities but with other charitable efforts. We thank them for doing so much for others.

Tonight’s event is open to the public. A reception at the U.P. Labor Hall of Fame site in the NMU Superior Dome at 5 p.m. will be followed by registration at the Northern Center Ballroom at 6 p.m.

Anyone interested in purchasing a ticket for the event should contact Alex Gustafson at 906-553-9405 or by email at uprlfcoord@ gmail.com.