Keep It In The UP!

PWPL Presents: Tech Coaching for Seniors
2025-10-30 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, 2025. 10 AM – 1 PM.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room. Need help with the settings on your phone? Want to download the downtown parking app? Learn how to make your electronic devices work the way you want them to with the help of Christine Ault, retired teacher and librarian.
Call the Reference Desk at 906-226-4311 to schedule your 30-minute session.
Please charge your electronic device before each session, and bring passwords with you.
No fees.

Upper Peninsula to promote college savings program
2025-10-30 10:30 - 11:30 | U.P. Children’s Museum, 123 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette, MI, 49855, United States
Michigan Education Trust heads north of the Bridge to link Yooper families to new college savings opportunities
MET fall tour spans Upper Peninsula to promote college savings program with $25 enrollment and $100 bonus
MARQUETTE – This fall, as the Upper Peninsula comes alive with color and crisp air, the Michigan Education Trust (MET) will embark on its first U.P. tour since launching its historic $25 minimum enrollment, with community sessions to help families start saving for college.
The events, to be held Sept. 29-Oct. 1, in Escanaba, Marquette, Newberry and Sault Ste. Marie, mark the most significant push yet to connect Yooper families with Michigan’s prepaid tuition program.
Attending one of the events provides families with an opportunity to learn how MET can help them build college savings with an initial contribution of just $25 instead of the previous requirement to purchase at least one credit hour upfront.
Representatives from MET and the Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP), also a Section 529 plan administered by the state Department of Treasury, will be available to provide insights into the features and benefits of each program and to assist in opening new accounts – with a $100 bonus for every new MET contract opened at the events.*
“Lowering the enrollment to $25 makes saving accessible to more Michigan families than ever before, and we’re proud to bring this message directly to the U.P.,” said Diane Brewer, executive director of both programs. “Fall is the perfect time for families to take this important step by starting small now to build a future of opportunity for the next generation.”
Event Schedule:
Escanaba drop-in, information and enrollment session
Monday, Sept. 29, 3-6 p.m.
Catherine Bonifas Civic Center – Room 121
225 N. 21st St., Escanaba
Marquette – U.P. Children’s Museum (Toddler Time)
Tuesday, Sept. 30, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
123 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette
Newberry – Tahquamenon Area School Public Library presentation
Tuesday, Sept. 30, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
700 Newberry Ave., Newberry
Sault Ste. Marie drop-in, information and enrollment session
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Lake Superior State University – Norris Event Center, Room 202
1000 Meridian St., Sault Ste. Marie
Since its inception in 1988, MET has helped more than 105,000 students’ parents and grandparents save for college, making it one of the nation’s most successful prepaid tuition programs. MET contracts allow families to purchase future college tuition at today’s rates and are eligible for state tax deductions. Funds can also be used at out-of-state, private colleges, trade schools or can be transferred to family members.
“Every step you take to save early is a step toward opportunity,” Brewer said. “We want every Michigan child to step into their educational future with a strong financial foundation beneath them.”
More information about the sessions and Michigan’s 529 plans is available online.
*Limit one bonus per beneficiary, lifetime.
About MET
MET is Michigan’s Section 529 prepaid tuition savings program that allows the purchase of future tuition at any of the state’s public universities and colleges at today’s rates. The total contract price is eligible for a state tax deduction and earnings are tax-exempt if used for qualified higher education expenses. MET funds can be used to pay out-of-state and Michigan private college and university tuition and credits can also be transferred to other eligible family members.
About MESP
MESP is Michigan’s direct-sold Section 529 college savings program that offers families various investment options. It also provides Michigan taxpayers a state income tax deduction on contributions and potential tax-free growth on any earnings if account proceeds are used to pay for qualified higher education expenses. MESP can be used at any eligible college, university or trade school in the nation and some abroad. Qualified higher education expenses include tuition, fees, room, board, books, equipment and supplies required for enrollment. Limitations apply. See the MESP Disclosure Booklet for details.

Bareback Mountain Hike
2025-10-30 11:00 - 15:00 | Harlow Lake Road
Join us for a group hike on October 30th!
Come hike with us to the majestic Bareback Mountain. The hike begins at the parking area on the northeast end of Harlow Lake and immediately begins to ascend the granite outcroppings that define hiking in the Marquette area. The trail provides beautiful vistas of Harlow Lake, Hogback Mountain, Lake Superior and the valley below as it progresses to the mountain summit. From the summit, the hike continues along the McLovin bike path over a few more rock outcroppings before descending to the valley floor for a serene hike through a hardwood forest back to the parking lot.
Our hike will be led by Marquette Area Chapter Hike Leader Dennis Fattaleh (906-360-6441), an experienced hiker.
This hike will cover approximately 3 miles of terrain and is an intermediate hike. Proper hiking boots are required. Expect a few wet spots and occasional steep climbs. Plan on 3 to 4 hours of hiking time. Don’t forget to bring water and a snack!
We will meet on Thursday, October 30th at 11:00 AM at the first parking area on Harlow Lake Road just before the bridge (Google Map link here). Note: this is not any of the parking areas directly on CR550. Watch for the Harlow Lake Road sign approximately 5 miles from Marquette once you’re on CR550. This is maybe 100 feet before the Little Presque Isle entrance on the left (west) side of the road. From there it’s about 7/10ths of a mile to the parking area.

This event is limited to 15 participants and advanced registration is required. Please click here to register. Registration will remain open until Wednesday, October 29 or until we reach capacity.

We hope to see you there!

PWPL Presents: ‘Twas the Night Before Halloween Family Storytime
2025-10-30 18:00 - 18:45 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Thursday October 30, 2025.
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Community Room.
Families with youth of all ages – join us for our annual ‘Twas the Night Before Halloween Family Storytime! Costumes for kids and adults are highly encouraged during this special storytime of Halloween themed stories and interactive elements. Kids will be able to join a Halloween Parade across the stage at the end of storytime (great time to get some cute pictures!) and trick-or-treat on their way out the door (both candy and non-candy options available). Under 8 must have an adult present in the program with them.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

NMU Theatre and Dance Presents 'Ctrl+Alt+Delete'
2025-10-30 18:00 - 2025-11-02 21:00 | James A. Panowski Black Box Theatre, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, Michgian, 49855
Northern Michigan University Theatre and Dance will stage Ctrl+Alt+Delete, a darkly comic look at tech startups, speculative investment, and the value we assign to ideas in a rapidly evolving economy. The production runs Oct. 30-Nov. 2 and Nov. 6-9 in NMU’s Panowski Black Box Theatre.
Set during the tech boom of the late 1990s, Ctrl+Alt+Delete follows wunderkind Eddie Fisker, a young tech developer who teams up with a visionary entrepreneur to launch a revolutionary new app. As the startup gains traction, the team becomes increasingly disconnected from the ethical and real-world consequences of their creation. What begins as a promising tech venture quickly spirals into a chaotic satire of modern business culture.
“This is more a play about funny money than technology itself,” said director Jimmy Ludwig, who starred in the leading role in the play’s original East Coast premiere. “It’s really all about how we create and assign value, and how the power of belief can literally create wealth. The dot-com era saw an ability to generate wealth that outpaced anything we’d seen before. This play explores the difference between selling a product and selling potential. If you’re selling a product, you’re a sitting duck. It can fail, break, get old. But if you’re selling the idea of something, the whole blue sky is the limit.”
Ludwig calls the show especially timely in today’s world of cryptocurrency. The play’s themes reflect cycles seen throughout economic history.
“We’ve turned this cast into economists,” Ludwig said. “We looked at every bubble in history, from the Dutch tulip craze to the 1929 crash. Our entire economy is built on speculation. Every time it happens, someone at the top says, ‘This is fine.’ Until someone else finally says, ‘This is actually built on nothing.'”
Ludwig said a subplot, which he doesn’t want to disclose as a spoiler, provides great comic relief.
“It is a very fast-paced play that really crackles,” he added. “We’re doing a lot of fun stuff with technology for this production. There will actually be what we’re calling the Jumbotron: four screens that face each bank of seats in the round, with five cameras positioned all around the space. That way the audience gets to be in this proscenium and see moments where the actors are facing away from them.”
Showtimes are 7:30 nightly with an additional 1 p.m. matinee on Nov. 8 and a sensory-friendly, “pay what you can” Theatre for All matinee at 1 p.m. on Nov. 1. Tickets are $25 for the general public; $22 for NMU faculty/staff, seniors 60+ and military; $15 for youth under 18; and $5 for NMU students. They can be purchased at nmu.universitytickets.com.
For more details on the production, visit nmu.edu/theatreanddance/ctrlaltdelete.

PWPL Presents: Cultivating Care, Compassion, and Connection
2025-10-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Fridays, October (3, 10, 17, 24, 31) 2025. Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library, Heritage Room.
In partnership with several area organizations, this hour-long event offers a safe space to pause, reflect, and build meaningful connections with others who are committed to cultivating kindness in our world. Each week, a different organization takes the lead, with experienced educators and leaders facilitating. This rotating format ensures diverse perspectives and practices while maintaining a shared commitment to the Charter for Compassion and the Circle of Trust principles.
For more information and to check on the status of the program, call 906-226-4303 or visit www.pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Meditate Marquette Presents: A Year of Mindful Living
2025-11-01 10:00 - 11:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturday, November 1, 2025.
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library, George Shiras III Room.
Four mindfulness meditation and yoga teachers invite you to engage in a year of mindful living. Each month, one of the teachers will present a topic that addresses the different dimensions where we can practice mindfulness and presence. The intent is for us to cultivate mindfulness, care, and well-being individually and in our love, business, and social relationships. These are drop-in sessions, although committing to a full year is a way to build a consistent mindfulness practice. For more information and to check on the status of the program, call 906- 226-4303 or visit pwpl.info.

The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market fall special events and seasonal markets.
2025-11-01 10:00 - 13:00 | MI
The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market is gearing up for a festive fall and holiday season with a full lineup of special events and seasonal markets.
Trick or Treat at the Market
Saturday, October 25 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Dress up in your best costume and join the fun as market vendors hand out treats to trick-or-treaters of all ages.
Final Outdoor Farmers Markets of the Season
Saturdays, November 1, 8, and 15 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Enjoy the last outdoor farmers markets of 2025 and stock up on late-season produce, baked goods, and local products before winter arrives.
Upcoming Holiday Markets – Applications Now Open!
Local vendors are invited to apply for the following holiday events:
Thanksgiving Market – Saturday, November 22 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
City Tree Lighting Market – Friday, December 5 | 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Yule Market – December 8-13 | 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
These markets feature a mix of indoor and outdoor booth options perfect for vendors offering holiday classics, handmade gifts, and seasonal favorites. The Yule Market offers flexible options for vendors interested in participating on multiple days throughout the week.
Applications and additional details can be found at mqtfarmersmarket.com/marquette-holiday-market
The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market thanks the community for a successful 2025 season and looks forward to celebrating the holidays downtown with local farmers, makers, and shoppers.

Saturday Farmers Market
2025-11-01 10:00 - 13:00 | Marquette Commons, 112 S. Third St., Marquette, MI, 49855, United States
Date: Saturdays, November 1, 8, 15
Time: 10 am – 1 pm
Location: Marquette Commons
At the Downtown Marquette Farmers Market, you will find over 70 vendors gathered to exhibit their locally grown, collected, and crafted products. Stop by the Marquette Commons every Saturday from 10 am – 1 pm to enjoy the local farmers, bakers, artisans, musicians, and more!

PWPL Presents: Saturday Storytime
2025-11-01 11:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturdays, November (1, 15, 22), 2025.
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays geared towards babies through preschool with a loving adult. Older siblings and older children welcome.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Art with Ella
2025-11-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Saturday, November (1 & 15).
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Join NMU Art Education major Ella and create art! Kids of all ages are welcome – the techniques used will be adaptable for kids of all ages and abilities. All supplies provided, drop-in program. Children under the age of 8 must have an adult in the program with them.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226- 4323 or visit pwpl.info.

U.P. Labor Hall Of Fame Plaque Unveiling
2025-11-01 17:00 | Northern Center, NMU, 1401 Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, Michigan, 49855
Saturday, November 1, 2025
NMU Northern Center, 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette MI 49855
Plaque Unveiling- 5:00 p.m. U.P. Hall of Fame display, NMU dome
Program- 6:00 p.m. in the NMU Northern Center

Trade unionists, family and friends will gather to induct: IBEW Local 906 member, Tom Hogan and AFSCME member, Don Maki into the Upper Peninsula Labor Hall of Fame. The inductees are being recognized for their lifelong dedication to improving the lives of working men and women in the Upper Peninsula.

PWPL Presents: Food for Fines
2025-11-03 00:00 - 2025-12-29 23:59 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
November 3-29.
Peter White Public Library is once again partnering with the TV6 Canathon to help feed our hungry neighbors. From November 3 – 29, the library will serve as a collection point for food items to help stock our local food pantries. As an added incentive to donate, the library is offering Food for Fines, a program that allows library users to resolve overdue fines with the donation of non-perishable food items. For each non-perishable food item brought to the library’s circulation desk, $1.00 in overdue library fines will be forgiven. There is no limit to the dollar amount of overdue fines that can be waived through Food for Fines. Please only include donations that are shelf stable such as canned fruit, vegetables, meat, soup, boxed meals, pasta, rice, and peanut butter.
Questions about the Food for Fines program can be directed to Melissa Alan at 906-226-4310.

PWPL Presents: D&D Junior Campaign #2: Grades 4th & 5th
2025-11-03 16:30 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Mondays, November (3, 10, 17), 2025. 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
In-person registration at the Youth Services Desk required to claim your spot in a fantasy adventure! Registration opens on October 20th . Registration will be for all 3 sessions of campaign #2. Experienced and first-time players welcome.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Cyber Clinic Series: Protect Your Personal Devices
2025-11-03 17:00 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Monday, November 3, 2025. 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room.
Peter White Public Library is partnering with the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute to bring the Marquette community authoritative and up-to-date information about computer and internet safety through our program series, Cyber Clinic. Learn simple privacy steps to keep your phone, tablet, or computer safe. We’ll walk through common settings and explain what they mean so you can use your devices with confidence. Feel free to bring your device for optional hand-on help during the session.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of this program, call 906-226-4311 or email refdesk@pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Craft Magic Series: Punch Needle Magic with Lydia Taylor
2025-11-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Monday, November 3, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Shiras Room.
Teens, Family, Adults, Seniors. Join fiber artist Lydia Taylor for a Beginner Punch Needle Workshop. Learn basic punch needle skills and leave with your very own handmade punch needle project. Starter kits provided. Space is limited to ten participants, so register early.
No admission charge.
For more information, contact Marty at 226-4322, machatz@pwpl.info, or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Preschool Storytime Tuesdays & Fridays,
2025-11-04 10:00 - 10:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
November (4, 7, 14, 18, 21), 2025. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Preschool age children. Stories, songs, finger-plays, crafts and other school-readiness activities for preschool age children and a loving adult. Siblings welcome.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226- 4323 or visit
pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Tech Coaching for Seniors
2025-11-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesdays and Thursdays, November (4, 6, 18, 20), 2025. 10 AM – 1 PM.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room.
Need help with the settings on your phone? Want to download the downtown parking app? Learn how to make your electronic devices work the way you want them to with the help of Christine Ault, retired teacher and librarian.
Please charge your electronic device before each session, and bring passwords with you.
No fees.
Call the Reference Desk at 906-226-4311 to schedule your 30-minute session.

PWPL Presents: Muggles for Potter Grades 3-6
2025-11-04 16:30 - 17:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesday, November 4, 2025. 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
For November’s meeting we will dive into Potions Class!
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

Marquette County Board Of Commissioners Regular Meeting
2025-11-04 18:00 | Marquette County Courthouse, 234 W. Baraga Avenue, Marquette, Michigan, 49855
Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 6:00 P.M.
Room 231, Henry A. Skewis Annex, Marquette, Michigan 49855

CALL TO ORDER BY CHAIRMAN DEROCHA

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS:

Regular Meeting Minutes held on October 21, 2025

PROCLAMATIONS, PRESENTATIONS AND AWARDS
PUBLIC COMMENT (5 minutes per person)
REVIEW OF CLAIMS AND ACCOUNTS:

Total Expenditures paid via check & EFT Transfers for the period October 17, 2025 through October 30, 2025 were $1,160,222.43; and biweekly payroll for the period ending October 25, 2025 was $900,144.90.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
PRIVILEGED COMMENT a. Undersheriff Larson with October Stats
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS a. DNR Road Inventory Review 2025 Summary
ACTION ITEMS: a. K.I. Sawyer Wastewater Aeration Building Construction Contract b. Air Traffic Control Tower Upgrades Recommendation c. Passenger Boarding Bridge Construction Administrative Agreement d. 3rd Quarter Budget Amendment e. Civil Counsel Interim Service Agreement 2nd Amendment
LATE ADDITIONS: a.
PUBLIC COMMENT (3 minutes per person)
COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS, STAFF COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT

Marquette County Board Of Commissioners Regular Meeting
October 21, 2025 – 6:00 P.M. –
COMMISSIONERS ROOM 231, HENRY A. SKEWIS ANNEX, MARQUETTE, MI 49855.

CALL TO ORDER BY CHAIRPERSON JOSEPH DEROCHA AT 6:00 P.M.

Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call: Present: Comm. Admini, Comm. LaLonde, Comm. Alholm, Comm. Nordeen and Chairperson Derocha. Absent: Comm. Numinen

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Board Action: Comm. Alholm moved to approve the agenda as presented. Second by Comm. LaLonde. Motion adopted. (5-0)
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: Board action: Comm. Nordeen moved to approve the minutes from the Annual Meeting held on October 14, 2025 as presented. Second by Comm. Alholm. Motion adopted (5-0)
PROCLAMATION, PRESENTATIONS AND AWARDS
PUBLIC COMMENT:

Jeff Chiodi, Marquette County Conservation District spoke about the upcoming budget cuts and how it will affect their office.
Margaret Brumm, Marquette, reported to the board how the local food pantries are struggling and there is a projected increase for food assistance in our community, starting November 1, 2025, due to budget cuts.

With no further public comment to come before the board this portion of the meeting is concluded.

REVIEW OF CLAIMS AND ACCOUNTS:

Board action: Comm. Alholm moved to approve Total Expenditures paid via check & EFT Transfers for the period of October 10, 2025 through October 16, 2025 were $848,361.41; biweekly payroll for the period ending October 11, 2025 was $870,932.98. Second by Comm. LaLonde. Motion adopted (5-0)

PUBLIC HEARING
PRIVILEGED COMMENT
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

ACTION ITEMS: a. CCI Trail Easement Duane DuRay, County Administrator, was present to explain that Marquette County has been working with Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. (CCI) to formalize an easement agreement covering approximately 300 miles of motorized and non-motorized trail corridors across more than 10,000+ acres of property. This easement represents a generous donation by CCI, ensuring that these vital recreation assets are legally protected for the long-term benefit of residents, visitors, and future generations.
Board action: Comm. Nordeen made a motion to pre-approve the tentatively agreed-upon easement agreement as presented, contingent upon incorporation of map exhibits and final review by Marquette County Civil Counsel of the trail alignment maps, exhibits, and the easement agreement. Second by Comm. Admini. A roll call vote was taken: Ayes: Comm. Nordeen, Comm. Admini, Comm. LaLonde, Comm. Alholm, and Chairperson Derocha. Nays: None. Motion adopted (5-0)

Argonics Lease Amendment David Erhart, Airport Manager, was present to explain the following: For many years, Argonics, Inc. has operated a polyurethane manufacturing operation on airport property. Over those years, Argonics has continued to work with airport staff to implement building improvements and has made a further commitment to the area by relocating its Colorado operation and merging it with the operation here. Staff is seeking for the Marquette County Board of Commissioners to consider approving the execution of a lease agreement extension between Marquette County and Argonics, Inc. The lease amendment would continue the agreement between the County and the Tenant on similar terms.

Lease Particulars:

Lease terms – The term of the Lease is extended by five years (May 1, 2025 through April 30, 2030).
Second 5-year extension of five allowed 5-year extensions
Rent – Building 727, Parcels AL-48, B9-B – $15,162.04 per month ($2.44/sq ft)

Parcel AL-46 $205.18 per month ($2,462.16 per acre per annum)

The lease rate shall have an escalator of 2% annually.

Board action: Comm. LaLonde moved to approve the terms established in the signed Letter of Intent, direct Staff to draft a lease amendment between the County of Marquette and Argonics Inc., and authorize Chairman Derocha to execute the lease. Second by Comm. Alholm. Motion adopted (5-0)

Aerostar Lease Amendment David Erhart, Airport Manager, explained the United States Air Force (USAF) continues to investigate contamination issues stemming from their previous operations in and around the former K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base. Over the last four years Aerostar SES, LLC. has been contracted by the USAF to provide engineering services related to this task and have been leasing building 416 to operate out of while conducting their site investigations. The ongoing operation will require extending the lease for an additional 2 years

Lease Particulars:

Lease terms – The term of the Lease is extended by two years (August 1, 2025 through July 31, 2027).
The rental rate shall be $2.90 per square foot per annum (based on 1080 square feet), for a rent revenue of $3,132.00 the first year (August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026) resulting in a payment of $261.00 per month.
The lease rate shall have an escalator of 5% annually.
All other terms and conditions of the Lease dated September 15, 2021 remain in effect.

Board action: Comm. Nordeen moved to approve the terms established in the signed Letter of Intent, direct Staff to draft a lease amendment between the County of Marquette and Aerostar SES, LLC and authorize Chairman Derocha to execute the lease. Second by Comm. LaLonde. Motion adopted (5-0)

DHS Board Appointment Board action: Comm. Alholm moved to approve Caroline Bridges, to the Department of Human Services Board, for a 3-year term ending October 31, 2028. Second by Comm. LaLonde. Motion adopted (5-0)

LATE ADDITIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT: With no public comment to come before the board this portion of the meeting is concluded.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS, STAFF COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Comm. LaLonde informed the board of a can drive hosted by the United Way, staring soon.
Comm. Nordeen stated that Cliff’s is looking at rare earth mineral mining in our area, and there may be a possibility the Eagle Mine will not pursue the last body of nickel and copper.
Christina Nestor, Civil Counsel thanked the board for allowing her to cover for Alex Berger at tonight’s meeting.
Cory Beth Grigg, Chief Deputy Clerk reminded everyone about the upcoming election on November 4, 2025.
Chairperson Derocha thanked Cliff’s and Gabe Johnson who worked diligently on the CCI Trail Easement.

CLOSED SESSION
ADJOURNMENT. There being no further business to come before the County Board, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 6:19 p.m.

PWPL & Meditate Marquette Mindfulness Meditation Tuesday
2025-11-04 18:00 - 19:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesdays, November (4, 18, 25) 2025. 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Heritage Room.
Mediate Marquette and PWPL have collaborated to offer a weekly, in-person mindfulness meditation program. The sessions begin at 6:00 pm followed by a period of fellowship. Dr. Debra Smith, a Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher and psychologist, will deliver brief talks exploring various aspects of meditation and its impact on our lives. These talks will take place on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, while longer meditation sessions are scheduled for the remaining Tuesdays. All individuals, regardless of skill level or spiritual affiliation, are welcome to attend.
For further information, please contact meditatemarquette@gmail.com or call 906-226-4303.

PWPL Presents: Baby Storytime
2025-11-05 10:00 - 10:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesdays, November (5, 12, 19, 26) 2025. 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Peter White Public Library Great Room.
Songs, rhymes, stories and finger-plays for newborns to 17 months with a loving adult. Older siblings are welcome.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4323 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Director Chat
2025-11-05 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-05 17:00 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, November 5, 2025. 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. & 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Circulation Lobby.
Stop by the Library to chat with Library Director Andrea Ingmire. For more information and to check the status of the program, call 906-226-4303 or visit pwpl.info.

PWPL Presents: Home School Chapter Book Discussion
2025-11-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, November 5, 2025. 1:00 p.m. -2:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Teen Zone.
Home School Teens, Ages 11 & up, are welcome to join Amanda in the Teen Zone for bi-weekly book discussions. We will be discussing The Wrong Way Home by Kate O’Shaughnessy. For youth ages 11 & up.
No admission charge.
For more information or to check the status of this program, call 906-226-4321, email Amanda at apierce@pwpl.info, visit pwpl.info, or find Peter White Public Library Teen Services on Instagram or Facebook.

Marquette Regional History Center presents: Here Comes the Wizard Oil Wagon: Senior Support Series
2025-11-05 13:30 | Marquette Regional History Center, 145 W. Spring Street, Marquette, Michigan
Marquette Regional History Center presents:
Here Comes the Wizard Oil Wagon: Senior Support Series (SSS)
Wednesday, November 5, 1:30 p.m.
During the last quarter of the nineteenth century, Marquette County residents eagerly awaited the arrival of various traveling medicine shows. The shows consisted of free musical performances and humorous skits, plus sales pitches for whatever medicine the self-proclaimed “doctor” was selling. This presentation by local history buff Bill Van Kosky will take us back to the golden age of quackery, when medical science was floundering and anyone could legally put anything in a bottle and say that it would cure all ills of man or beast. This daytime SSS program includes an antique medical equipment display by Chip Truscon, door prizes, and complimentary Dead River Coffee.
All ages welcome.
Free program.
For more info visit marquettehistory.org or call 906.226.3571

PWPL Presents: unTITLEd Teens
2025-11-05 15:00 - 18:00 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, November 5, 2025. 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Peter White Public Library Teen Zone.
Teens in grades 6-12 join in on the fun with unTITLEd Teens, a monthly program that will be a different activity each month.
No admission charge.
For more information and to check the status of this program, call 906-226-4321, email Amanda at apierce@pwpl.info, and visit pwpl.info.

November Meeting media release-League of Women Voters
2025-11-05 18:30 | Peter White Public Library, 217 N Front Street, Marquette, MI, 49855
The League of Women Voters of Marquette County will hold its next general membership meeting on Wednesday, November 5th at 6:45 p.m. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Heritage Room on the 2nd floor of Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St., Marquette. The business meeting will be followed by a presentation by David Allen on the City of Marquette’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
All interested community members are welcome to attend. For more information, email lwvmqtco@gmail.com or visit the website lwvmqt.org.

'American Revolution' Preview and Panel Discussion Nov. 5
2025-11-05 19:00 | Northern Center Grand Ballroom, NMU, Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, Michgian, 49855
WNMU-TV will host a preview screening and panel discussion related to “The American Revolution,” a new Ken Burns six-part, 12-hour documentary series that explores the country’s founding struggle and its eight-year War for Independence. The screening is open to the public and takes place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, in the Northern Center Ballrooms on Northern Michigan University’s campus.
“This opportunity to learn about the founding of the United States’ democracy is brought to you as part of NMU’s commitment to expand opportunities for civic learning and community engagement by staff, faculty and students,” said Tammy Wixtrom Johnson of WNMU public media. “This is one of the strategies outlined in Our Compass, NMU’s strategic plan.”
Hosting the event for WNMU-TV is Jim Koski. The three panelists leading the discussion and question segment are the following NMU faculty and staff members: Carter Wilson, professor and department head, Political Science & Public Administration; Emily Romeo, assistant professor, History; and Justin Schapp, assistant director of KCP grant administration and faculty/staff initiatives, Office of Opportunity, Empowerment & People.
This screening event gives a preview of “The American Revolution,” which has been in production for eight years. It was directed and produced by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, and written by longtime collaborator Geoffrey C. Ward. The series premieres Sunday, Nov. 16 and airs for six consecutive nights through Friday, Nov. 21 from 8-10:00 p.m. ET on WNMU-TV.
According to a synopsis, it examines how America’s founding turned the world upside-down. Thirteen British colonies on the Atlantic Coast rose in rebellion, won their independence, and established a new form of government that radically reshaped the continent and inspired centuries of democratic movements around the globe.
“The American Revolution is one of the most important events in human history.” said Burns. “We went from being subjects to inventing a new concept–citizens–and set in motion democratic revolutions around the globe. As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our founding, I’m hopeful that people throughout the country will come together to discuss the importance of this history and to appreciate even more what our ancestors did to secure our liberty and freedoms.”
Information provided by WNMU-TV

NMU Students to Lead French Camp Nov. 6th and 11th
2025-11-06 00:00 - 23:59 | Sandy Knoll Elementary School, 401 6th St, Marquette, MI, 49855, United States
Students in Northern Michigan University’s French program will lead another “French Camp for Younger Learners” Nov. 6th and 11th at Sandy Knoll Elementary School in Marquette. This outreach initiative demonstrates an ongoing commitment to academic service learning, which is a component of every course in the French program.
The camp promotes communication skills and cultural appreciation, with topics ranging from cuisine to fine arts. Service learning gives NMU students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a meaningful way, transforming abstract knowledge into real-world communication skills, and connecting them more deeply to the language and culture, said Professor Nell Kupper.
Research shows that integrating structured service with academic learning fosters both academic development and civic responsibility, she added, which boosts cultural awareness and professionalism.
“For NMU’s French Program, it means transforming language instruction into a reciprocal experience-one in which NMU students reinforce their own fluency, language and cultural skills while enriching local elementary classrooms through diversity and global perspectives,” Kupper said.
“French Camp teaches NMU students skills like leadership, planning, communication and empathy-competencies highly valued by U.S. employers and for international opportunities,” she said. “It immerses elementary students in Francophone culture locally, thus enhancing intercultural competence and virtually eliminating the apprehension of foreign language study that is mandatory for Michigan high school graduates.”
One memorable story related to the enduring impact of French Camp came from a former Sandy Knoll Elementary fourth grader, who wrote a thank-you note to NMU students soon after her experience.
“I really enjoyed learning lots of really cool French words, like counting to 12 in French and saying how are you and lots of other cool things,” she wrote. “I wish we would have had more time with you so you could teach me more things.”
Now in college herself, the same student reflected on her early exposure to language and culture during her French Camp experience as a defining moment.
“After having this experience in fourth grade, I took French in high school and remembered simple phrases like how to greet someone and to say goodbye. I learned a lot about the culture. Living in Marquette, we do not have exposure to French culture, and I am very glad I had that experience in high school. I hope to visit France in the coming years.”
Beyond language instruction and cultural awareness, the camp encourages curiosity and confidence among young learners. As the upcoming French Camp approaches, NMU’s French students and their instructor, Kupper, look forward to continuing this tradition of service learning and engagement with their partner school, Sandy Knoll.
