Archived Stories
February 2020 - Brain Functions
To a packed audience in the PWPL community room, Sonia Geschwindt, MD and Amanda Johnson, PhD from UP Health System Brain and Spine provided an overview of the brain's function and how to optimize its memory. They provided NCLL with an abbreviated form of their Powerpoint presentation. You can download it in PDF form.
February 2020 - Travelogue on Switzerland
Carol Margrif, a frequent traveler and NCLL travelogue presenter, gave us highlights of a recent trip to Switzerland. In addition to the great photos and narrative, Carol brought in boxes of momentos for the audience to view during the break. The Mining Journal article provided a nice summary in All things Swiss: Trip detailed during NCLL presentation
July 2019 - Native American Experience - Sampler
What can you do/think about with regards to Native Americans or other races, nationalities, ethnic groups?
- Check yourself. About to tell a racist joke? Catch yourself in the act, and stop before you go through with it.
- Step outside your comfort zone. Learn about people of other cultures, ethnicities, and religions. The more you learn about others, the less likely you are to judge them.
- Correct others when they stereotype. When you hear others make racist, offensive, or stereotypical remarks, call them out on it! When engage others in discussion of their own prejudices, we engage in positive dialogue and increase our own awareness as well.
NCLL participants received a sampling of NAS 204, an actual course at NMU focusing on “The Native American Experience.The actual course description for NAS 204/Native American Experience: A study of the development of Native American history, culture, attitudes and issues from the prehistoric era to the contemporary scene, focusing on native culture in the Great Lakes region. Shared native world view, contact experience and native peoples’ contributions to world culture are an important part of the course. For those interested in what degrees are available via NAS (Native American Studies): Bachelor degree, Minor, Associate, Certification, Master’s in American Indian Education Administration. The NAS programs at Northern Michigan University prepare students for futures in respectful tribal engagement, education and traditional arts, language learning, community and environmental work, research and academic pursuits within the discipline of Native American Studies.
Our program presenter Shirley Brozzo, is a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and a contingent full professor for the Center for Native American Studies at NMU. Brozzo is also the Associate Director of the Multicultural Education and Resource Center at NMU. Additionally, Shirley is a storyteller, published author, and poet.
BOARDING SCHOOL BENEFITS AND HARM In an attempt to assimilate the children into the mainstream American way of life, thousands of Native American children were voluntarily or forcibly removed from their family and homes and placed in government-run boarding schools. A goal to make them accept white men’s beliefs and value systems was paramount. They were stripped of their traditional clothing and their hair was cut short (a source of shame for Native Americans). Siblings were separated and had their given names, religious beliefs/traditions, food and cultural traditions taken away. They were exposed to diseases such as measles and influenza, that their native nations had no immunity. Other abuses and worse were common and documented. They were forbidden to speak their language and punished if they did so. Many students who returned to their reservations after the boarding schools experienced alienation, language and cultural barriers, and confusion.
NEW SKILLS/TEAM LEADERSHIP Coercive assimilation into the mainstream culture made gains as girls learned to cook, clean, sew, care for poultry and do laundry for the entire institution. Boys learned industrial skills such as carpentry, agriculture, blacksmithing, and shoemaking.
They also learned to socialize with other children, played team sports and learned team building skills. These learned boarding school skills were beneficial in obtaining employment and learning how to navigate their new environment. The military regimen also made it easier to adapt to military service. Many of the “code talkers” attended boarding schools and found it ironic that the same language they were forbidden to speak was instrumental in winning the war. .
The trade-off: The loss of their traditions, culture, family life and identity took a toll. According to research childhood trauma affects the health and well-being later in life. Childhood trauma such as war, separation of children from their families, terrorism, racial discrimination — and historical trauma, where the physiological effects of trauma are passed from generation to generation. If separated from family life and role models at an early age it would be difficult to have a positive and direct line to relationships and family life. So, did the benefits outweigh the costs???
Program participants found the program educational and interesting, and had many questions and positive comments. The interaction between the participants and the presenter added to the program experience.
STEREOTYPES One of the most common stereotypes is that all Native Americans are alcoholics. According to a study published by the National Institute On Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) white people – specifically white men -- are more likely than any other demographic group to drink alcohol on a daily basis, start drinking at a younger age, and drive while under the influence of alcohol. 
This same study acknowledges that the alcoholism that does exist within Native American culture is linked to the culture’s history of economic disadvantages and racial discrimination. With regard to boarding schools it might be plausible that the experience caused issues that made it difficult to cope, re-engage in life.
The shame and abuse from trauma suffered by Native peoples, and the forced disconnection from culture can lead to alcohol abuse to ease the pain. Those that do suffer from alcoholism within the Native community may be trapped in a cycle of oppression and hardship that’s difficult to break free from resulting in repeating via the next generation.
RECEIVING SPECIAL BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES FROM THE GOV'T The U.S. government took tribal lands belonging to Native Americans. Yes, some Native Americans receive educational benefits like subsidized or reduced tuition and Pell Grants, but so do other historically disadvantaged people, like the disabled and war veterans. By giving Native people educational and monetary advantages, we are simply fulfilling a legal contract in exchange for the cessation of their land. This “special treatment” is not, in fact, special treatment, but rather, part of an agreement that still stands today. Did you know that Northern Michigan University sits on the ancestral homeland of Native Americans?
STORYTELLING Native American culture uses stories and songs to entertain as well as a way to teach the youth. Storytelling is an important tool in the Native American society. Storytelling also passes down history and traditions of their culture.
FROM: Clarence Sherrick, https://www.Quora.com
Probably the best of the Native American oral storytelling tradition center around Coyote, Rabbit and Wolf. However almost every indigenous animal of North America is referenced in these stories. All of which are told somewhat differently from tribe to tribe. Coyote and Wolf are often two different versions of the same antagonist versus Rabbit as the protagonist. Rabbit is often the center of the moral teachings of the various Native American Tribes.
On a beautiful day, Rabbit decides to hop across a shallow stream to get some succulent plants on the other side. He uses a series of boulders sticking up out of the water to easily and safely cross. He lazily roams about eating the lush vegetation to be found on the other side of the stream. Basically, losing track of time. Unfortunately, he has traveled too far from the shallow stream and a cloudburst has started to fall in the distance. Plus it is not that far away before darkness arrives. He needs to quickly get back across that shallow stream to the safety of his burrow. He races to where the stream was and finds a wide swollen river now in his path. He races up and down looking for a way across. He sees Bear and asks him to help him across, but bear is too busy eating his fill of sweet berries. He rushes over to Badger, but Badger has his nose buried in the ground. He asks Turkey to help and Turkey says he cannot swim. Finally Rabbit sees Snake. In desperation he begs Snake to carry him across. Which Snake eagerly agrees to do. Rabbit climbs upon Snake's back and the serpent begins to slither across the swollen River. When the two finally reach the other side, Snake quickly lashes out and bites Rabbit. Why did you do this?" queries Rabbit with his last breath. Snake answers:" You knew I was a snake when you climbed aboard my back and I cannot help being what I am."
Article written by Sally Olsen
May 2019 -
Dr. Mary Martin of the NMU Biology Department gave a beginning field course on lichens held at Wetmore Landing. The Mining Journal article is a good record.
Likin’ lichens - Wetmore Landing good place for finding unique organisms
February 2019 -
Did you miss Sonny Longtine's NCLL presentation, "U.P. People: Incredible Stories about Incredible People"? It was reported in a Mining Journal article "Local author shares tales of U.P. people who made their mark". Sonny’s latest book covers 42 people from across the UP from the 1850’s to present time. Sonny said, “They are entrepreneurs and inventors, and have made a significant impact on the UP.” He also included some people who were just too interesting to ignore.
December 2018 - Medicinal Chemistry
On December 13th, Dr. Mark Paulsen, Department Head of NMU Chemistry described the new chemistry program dedicated to entrepreneurial and research-based careers in medicinal plants. A tour of the labs was also conducted by Dr. Paulsen and Dr. Lee Roecker. The Mining Journal article, "Chemistry Meets Biology" provides an excellent summary.
October 2018 - Green Burial
The October 19th Mining Journal has a very good summary of NCLL's program "Green Burial: What is it and why should I be interested?". 'Green' burial - Eco-friendly option explored.
August 2018 - Lessons on Immigration Prejudice
On August 17, 2018, Dr. Gabe Logan, the director of the Center for U.P. Studies and professor of History at NMU taught NCLL participants a few lessons on immigration prejudice. Through a presentation and examination of historical immigration cartoons, legal reviews questioning whether Finns were subject to the Anti-Chinese Immigration Act and articles written by Ben Franklin railing against Germans in Pennsylvania, Dr. Logan gave a perspective from the past. Small groups of participants identified current anti-immigration rhetoric and made comparisons to history. The Mining Journal wrote an extensive review of the class, "Immigration prejudice: Program focuses on issue, past and current" and is worth the read to see how prejudice is mostly recycled .... we just change the ethnic groups. Have we made progress?
March - A Visit with NMU International education services and students
Some fortunate NCLL members spent a fun and informative afternoon learning more about the NMU International Education Services Programs and five special international students. The four students and one alumnus we visited with were from Columbia (Ada), South Korea (Min), Saudi Arabia (Abdul), Jamaica (Reneika) and Venezuela (Manuel). Their majors are biology, psychology, exercise science, bio-chemistry, and business. The program adviser Lila Isleib described some of specific programs within the department and her related work with the students. Without needing to leave her desk to travel, Lila finds working with the students is an international education itself due to the process and the interaction with the students. It is apparent that they develop a special relationship with each other.
What were the shared observations and feelings?
Many of the experiences shared were humorous, and it would suffice to say there is definitely an adjustment period. Many do not have a real sense of where they are going until they get here. For instance they might know they are going to the largest city in something called the U.P. and often assume it is a large populated area. It can be culture shock when you arrive at the airport and try to contact an “uber” and then drive 20 miles before you see any lights, or a surprise when you come from a city of 10 million and find you are in a small town of 20,000.
They all agree the thing they miss the most, other than family, is the food from their home countries. We have never heard of many of the fruits and vegetables grown in tropical climates or other countries; consequently, they are not in our grocery stores. Some spices can be special ordered or found via the internet but it is best when they receive the special items sent in the family care packages.
Students who do not learn English in their home schools often learn by watching, listening or imitating English on TV shows or movies before they come to the U.S. While their English may not be perfect, they sometimes feel others think they are less intelligent because of it. Hesitancy is not a matter of intelligence; they are just trying to find the right English words to express themselves. Though this can be frustrating and hurtful, sometimes it creates additional motivation to study/try even harder.
There is sometimes a struggle with cultural differences. Some cultures are more demonstrative using hugs and touch to express themselves more fully. So some students are often hesitant to interact with others because they are not sure what is normal or acceptable in a certain situation. This can sometimes make it difficult to make friends and interact with others. While it is easier and more comfortable for them to “stick together,” they inherently know that the result is better if they interact with others.
It becomes apparent these students are determined, courageous, and have a sense of adventure and want the opportunities and education that studying and living in the U.S. brings to them. Education in many European countries is free or minimal with regard to expense. For students to come to the U.S. they must pass special exams, and their families sacrifice a great deal to help them get here and pay for their education and living expenses. Before they come to the U.S. they must prove/file special paperwork indicating they have the financial capability to be here and attend college. These five special people feel their time here has contributed to something larger in their lives. Their long term goals are to finish their studies, get their degrees and they are open to whatever the future might bring. All agreed that wherever they end up the people they have met, the experiences they have had and the time spent at NMU and in Marquette will always be a part of who they are and their future.
How can the Marquette community get involved?
In an effort to make their time here more complete and fulfilling, as well as give them and the community opportunities to interact, there are several ways the community members can participate. One way is to host a student in your home for the year. Manuel (NMU alumnus) is currently working with a program that finds host families for high school exchange students. Lila is working on the W.I.N. (Wildcat International Neighbor) program which is a mutually beneficial program for both the students and the community through learning and sharing cultures. NMU faculty, staff and alumni are asked to commit to meet with a student once a month to share some time, event, interest, hobby, or activity. The International Education Services Office is looking into the addition of local community members with this project.
There are also events held during the year including an event called “Passport to the World” which allows the International Student to proudly represent their home country and their culture to NMU and the local Marquette community. There is an ‘’International Food Festival” in the spring. This year it is on April 7th from 5-7p.m. at the Jacobetti Ctr. Advance tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the International Education Services Office located within the Dean of Students Office on the first floor of the Hedgcock Bldg. You can also purchase tickets at the door for $12.
More recently the current NMU international students have indicated they would like to know what an American Thanksgiving is all about. Lila is working on a program that invites the local community to host two or three international students to a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner.
Approximately 100 undergraduate or graduate students from 32 countries attend NMU. There are several routes that bring international students to NMU. It might be on a one or two semester scholarship, a bi-lateral exchange where one student from NMU goes to a university in another country and in turn one of their students attends NMU or for a four year undergraduate or two- year graduate program. Some study a specialized area in the health field so they can return home and contribute/improve health in their home country.
If you would like to know more or participate in any of the programs offered through the International Education Services Program contact Lila Isleib at Liisleib@nmu.edu
By Sally Olsen, liaison
February - Striking Copper in the Keweenaw - Class
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October 2017 - Spice Merchants “Foodie” Demo/Class...a food tasting and preparation explanation class on using spices. Read the associated Mining Journal article, " ' tis the season' " and check out our Facebook posting for photos and more details. |
Fall 2017
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Who knew such a gem existed in our area? Who knew over 4000 gliders were built in Kingsford for WWII? Who knew the largest steam-driven pumping engine ever built was in Iron Mt.? Who knew there was a U.P Veteran’s Memorial representing all 15 counties of the U.P. as well as recognizing the eras of Vietnam, Lebanon-Granada, the Gulf Wars, Korea and WW I & WW II. On Sept 11th, we rode a bus to Iron Mountain to visit three museums and the UP Veterans Memorial. Check out our photos and commentary on our Facebook page.
The Menominee Range Historical Foundation consists of three museums and gift shop: The Menominee Range Historical Museum, Cornish Pumping Engine & Mining Museum, and the World War II Glider & Military Museum The Menominee Range Historical Museum features over 100 exhibits depicting local history from Native American inhabitants through the early 20th century with chronological displays and re-created period rooms. During World War II, the Kingsford Ford Motor plant built more Model CG-4A gliders for the United States Army than any other company in the nation at much less cost than other manufacturers. The glider featured in the WWII Glider/Military Museum is one of only seven fully restored CG-4A World War II gliders in the world. The Cornish Pumping Engine & Mining Museum displays the largest steam-driven pumping engine ever built in the U.S. and is a Michigan Historic Site (1958), a National Historic Site (1981), a Michigan Historic Civil Engineering Landmark (1984) and a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark (1987). The museum also displays extensive underground mining equipment.
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Capt. Kurt Fosburg covered the geological formations of the Keweenaw copper range. He discussed those who came because of it, and how technology has influenced advancement in search of copper. 11 billion lbs. of copper were mined from the Keweenaw. Kurt even owns his own copper mine! Great presentation. Read the 
January - Evolution of the U.P. 200 Sled Dog Race
NCLL recently had the opportunity to learn more about a local program for people who have Parkinson’s. This program helps with flexibility, strength, balance and more as we learned by watching, listening and participating along with people with Parkinson’s. We were very impressed and felt this program was engaging, educational and everyone should attend if and when given the option. We thank Marge, Bill as well as those in the class for allowing us to share time with them.
“Motion is lotion” is a common adage heard from physical therapists and other practitioners who deal with movement difficulties. This certainly holds true for those living with PD.
Michigan has seven locations that offer dance classes for those with PD. The newest offering is right here in Marquette. Our own local owner of and instructor at Dance Zone, Marge Sklar, recently completed the on-line Dancing for PD course and also attended two workshops at the Mark Morris Dance Studio in Brooklyn. The instructors were taught how to apply what they learned towards a Dancing for PD class. 
This Dance for PD class is sponsored jointly by Lake Superior Hospice and Dance Zone at no charge. The class is based on the techniques and principles learned from the Mark Morris Dance for PD program. Class is open to those with PD, caregivers, family and friends. Class is free, but donations to support the program are gratefully accepted. Dance experience is not necessary. Class meets Tuesdays and Fridays, from 2-3:15 PM and Saturdays 1-2:15. Free. The Dance Zone is located at 1113 Lincoln Avenue on the corner of College. Contact Marge Sklar at 236-1457. Spring 2017
OLYMPIC TRAINING SITE
While giving a tour of facilities to NCLL on March 22nd, Mike Kaurala, the OTS director, and two coaches Vance Newgard (weight-lifting) and Rob Hermann (wrestling) described the OTS background, current affairs and future options. The Mining Journal published an article, "Seniors Go Olympian" written by Christi Bleck.
NCLL VISITS THE GOSSARD BUILDING IN ISHPEMING
NCLL recently visited The historical Gossard Manufacturing (1920-1976) Building in Ishpeming, MI. It was built in 1880 and as of 2016 is on the National Registry of Historic Places. Paul and Sandy Arsenault now own the building and are doing their part to preserve the history of the building and the Gossard Girls. What a historical gem! Over its 56 year history it employed nearly 1000 people (mostly women). Its main product was undergarments for women (especially the lace front corset, brassiere and panty girdle). Many of us will have to admit to remembering/wearing. I guess you could say these garments were the forerunner of Spanx!!
The upstairs cutting/sewing room is intact with an original 1911 sewing machine. Likewise they are still finding needles imbedded in the floor. There are some examples of the garments that were produced there, newspaper ads, articles and a tribute wall. Sandy looks for and appreciates any information from the public on these workers, the garments and stories associated with the Gossard Girls!
The women shared a camaraderie which brought into being things like picnics and bowling leagues. They also shared a free lunch together in the Gossard cafeteria. There was an house paper called “The Gossardian” which published marriages, births, household tips like using oxalic acid to get rid of rust stains, and social commentary about the workers, local activities, etc.
The work force was mainly a labor market of single women, miner’s wives and daughters. There were also some men (about 20%) who were mostly cutters. In turn it gave women the opportunity to have a job, learn a trade, and an income. They could buy a washing machine and contribute to the family, as well as the community economy, which was especially true during the war and the depression. This was the beginning of computer age, and this type of work being sent overseas for production.
There is also another part to the Gossard story which revolves around the “strike of 1949.” One of Marquette’s very own icon’s, Geraldine DeFant, who many of you will remember, came to Marquette, organized and led the famous Gossard Worker’s Strike to join the garment-workers union. This was a very interesting strike and I suggest you research the information out there and learn more about it
There is additional information on Gossard Manufacturing, the building, workers, strike and more; all yours ready for only the search on your part. Thanks to Sandy Arsenault for the presentation!
Sally Olsen For NCLL
Spring 2017:
LEARNING ABOUT LAMPISTS
Local resident Kurt Fosburg is one of only three certified Lampists in the nation. In January 2017 he gave a great educational, informative and fascinating presentation on the History of the Fresnel Lens. Those who attended had the highest accolades for Fosburg’s presentation – in the words of one participant “one of the best programs I have ever seen.”
The first thing we learned was the definition of a “Lampist:" an old-world term for a technician specializing in the set-up, repair, and preservation of classical Fresnel lighthouse lenses. Kurt, trained as an old world apprentice by the nation's leading lampist, followed this with a short lecture on the lens named after its French creator, Augustin Fresnel. Using a combination of the index of refraction of glass and the physics of light transmission, Fresnel created a mathematical formula to bend and focus the visible energy from a source of illumination into a concentrated beam of light to aid the Mariner at sea. The result was a beautiful combination of bronze framework and precision ground glass.
With increased U.S. shipping in the mid-1800s, the nation began purchasing the French Fresnel lenses for use in their lighthouses. Over time the classical Fresnel lens became obsolete, but instead of destroying these functional works of art the government began the process of removing the lenses from lighthouses and transferring them to local historical societies and maritime museums for public display.
Traveling the country, Kurt delicately removing these priceless artifacts and restores them to their original luster for display. He also manufactures missing components and associated clockworks mechanism, historically accurate reproduction of platforms, lamps, and other display items directly related to the Fresnel lens. Mr. Fosburg has gone on to create his own unique company to further his interests and career. As the youngest of the now retiring group of American lampists and the only one manufacturing replacement components, his talents, skills and passion for the subject shines bright. Some examples of Kurt's work are Stannard Rock near Marquette, Pointe aux Barques on Lake Huron, and Gibbs Hill on Bermuda.
If you would like to know more about NCLL, the programs or becoming a member contact the office or better yet, attend a program and experience for yourself. You can download booklet or registration forms or contact the NCLL office to request a paper copy.
Sally Olsen, NCLL Liaison; Photo and text provided by Kurt Fosburg
Winter 2017:
LEARNING TO TANGO
On December 18th, a Mining Journal article covered an NCLL Learning to Tango class, including a photo of the Soderbergs who "try out a few steps." Dancing to good health
Fall 2016:
NCLL, with Fred Huffman from North Country Tours as guide, loaded up a Checker bus and headed for Pictured Rocks Lakeshore and Grand Marais to take in the fall colors and some history as well as socialize with fellow NCLLers. It was a full day of seeing mother nature’s creations, learning about the history of Grand Marais and exploring this picturesque village.
The Chippewa Indians lived at Grand Marais for many years before the Europeans arrived. In 1829, Grand Marais was in its peak population of 2000-3000 due to lumber camps, mills and the commercial fishing industry. It had a hospital, lawyers, bankers, an opera house, livery stables, a cigar maker and more. A daily train ran from Seney and connected with other lines leading all across the nation. In 1911 the lumber companies and railroads closed and residents packed their bags and caught the train out. By 1915 there were only about 200 people left. In the mid-1920s highways opened and the motoring tourists discovered the village and tourism is now the primary industry.
Historical Society President Pat Munger welcomed and acquainted us with the village and was our tour guide for the Lighthouse Keeper’s Museum and the Pickle Barrel House Museum. The Pickel Barrel Museum was built for Wm. Donahey, creator of the Chicago Tribune cartoon story The Teenie Weenies. Donahey spent 10 summers in the cottage with his wife, Mary, herself a noted author of children’s books. The Teenie Weenies debuted in The Tribune in 1914 and continued until his death in 1970. The cartoon story featured miniature people who lived in a world of life-sized objects. This led to a contract with Reid, Murdoch and Company which packaged food products such as Monarch-brand pickles as well as other food products. Teenie Weenie books were translated into several languages and sold worldwide.
Sable Falls, Miner’s Castle, Munising Falls are always a thrill to see and remind us of how fortunate we are to live in this great place call the Upper Peninsula.
By Sally Olsen, NCLL Liaison; Photos contributed by Eric Rehorst and Lawrence Ellerbruch.
Summer 2016:
NCLL participants recently took a road/field trip to thriving area of Bark River. While it was a bit of a rocky start it turned out to be a great day. Our first stop was the Ten Mile Forge and Gift Shop which is nestled in a beautiful setting. George is a world renown blacks
mith whose specialty is making knives out of Damascus steel, hand carved scrimshaw handles and sheaths. The demonstration was impressive and we quickly learned he is a true artist, a wealth of knowledge as well as a good story teller. We were “shaking our heads” in awe trying to process it all. Maureen’s unique Irish/Celtic Gift shop is small but full of not only George’s handiwork but local jewelry, artwork, pottery, etc. Learn more at http://www.Exploringthenorth.com/tenmile/forge.html
We then headed for the Home Base Restaurant and Bar for a tasty lunch including Theresa’s home-made rhubarb/strawberry pie and rhubarb torte and I managed to get the recipe for it. Stop in when in that area. On to the Northern Sun Winery owned and operated by Dave and Sue Anthony, where the 4000 vines that make up over 5.2 acres of the farm are used to make their special blends such as the “Rhubarb,” the “Marquette” and the “Brianna.” They have found just the right grape varieties that grow in the local soil and climate and have already won international wine awards for their LaCrescent wine. We toured the vineyard, saw where and how the grapes were processed, and of course had an opportunity to taste and purchase wine. Susie’s enthusiasm is infectious and the staff is truly a part of the winery. They also host a summer concert series which would be great to attend. Check them out at http://www.northernsunwinery.com/
By Sally Olsen, NCLL Liaison
A few photos from the past
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