When I opened the "electronic mailbox" I found:
"Well this is just a message from a lesser known Roche, this is Bryan, the beta male in the family. Just to announce to anyone interested that I will be heading to the University of Michigan, honors program, for the fall 2004 term - yay!! As well, my friends and I will be heading up this summer three different times - for only a little while, since I have to work. But I need to know exactly when the popeye run will be and as well the pig roast. Thanks for the opportunity to email and I hope everyone is having a good summer." (Bryan Roche, 6/6)
"Thank you for posting the document. "Citizens for a better Eagle Harbor Township" is a group of registered voters of Eagle Harbor township that wish
to voice their view on the fire truck issue. We have no other agenda at this time. I drafted the document you received and any questions or comments regarding it can be sent to me at the email address below."(Ed Kisiel, 6/6)
eagleharbor@h2o-system.com
"Thanks for naming me the 2003-2004 Snowfall Champ. I guess it's a bit of luck since I didn't get any of the monthly forecasts correct. I just wanted
to introduce myself and give you some background on how and why I came across your web site.
I grew up in Ishpeming graduating from Ishpeming High School in 1977 and Northern Michigan University in 1982. Two weeks after getting my degree in
Electrical Engineering Technology, I was working at Hughes Aircraft Company in Los Angeles. I lived there till 1994, getting married and having kids
along the way, when we moved to Colorado to escape from the big city. Well, now living in the Denver area, I'm still living the city life.
My father was born in Gay and in the summer we would take frequent trips to the Copper Country. The best part for me was stopping in Eagle Harbor for a
swim along the beach. During my college years I would sometimes camp out at the fort and spend some time in Eagle Harbor and the surrounding area.
As the years go by, I find myself longing for the U.P. lifestyle and how great it would be to have a place in the Eagle Harbor area. I found your
website link on the CableAmerica Lake Superior site and also frequent Sharon Smiths web site for the live cam pictures. I try to get back at least once a
year to visit my friends and family in the Ishpeming area. My parents now live in Marquette. I'm planning on heading up there later this summer for a
quick vacation with the family. Does the offer still stand for the use of your guest cottage?" (Dave Maki, Thornton, CO, 6/1)
"Most of us have probably received a letter from the Postal Service, telling us that we must change our address to Mohawk. This is NOT correct. Yes,
you should start using your street address. But you can continue to use Eagle Harbor as your city. You do not need to change to Mohawk (unless
you'd like to).
Jim Oikarinen, the Postmaster at Mohawk, said that's just the way the letters came out, grouped by post office. Unfortunately, the letter says,
"It is important you begin using your new and complete address, SHOWN ABOVE, as soon as possible." and "... prepare new return address labels or
stationery." This does not apply to us having to say Mohawk.
Think of the confusion that would result! There is a 2nd St. in Eagle Harbor, and also in Mohawk. Also 3rd St. And 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th! If all the people on those streets in Eagle Harbor change to Mohawk, it will be impossible to tell them from the people who live on those streets in Mohawk. There may even be street number duplication. Likewise, it would bepreposterous for Fitzgerald's Restaurant on Front St. in Eagle River and Westlake's Eagle Harbor House on Front St. in Eagle Harbor, to both be
listed on Front St. in Mohawk! But if you change to Mohawk, eventually thephone company will list you there. There is at least hope that if youcontinue to use Eagle Harbor, the phone listing will not change. (If youstart getting your bills mailed to Mohawk, call and change it back!)
If you're uncomfortable "disobeying" this letter, call the Mohawk PostOffice to confirm that you can continue to use Eagle Harbor. I think it is necessary to spread the word on this, to save a lot of peoplea lot of trouble. So I suggest that:
1. The Township Office send out an Email explaining this. Also putsomething on your TV list.
2. George Hite post a notice about this on his famous website.
3. Everyone pass the word.
(David Owens, 5/26)
"My name is Wanda (Geis) Meehan and I am part of the "Hill - Billy" clan that lives up on the cut-off road outside of Eagle Harbor in the home
just before Probst. You probably know my oldest brother, Fred Geis, who is a true "town" person. As best as I can figure, I have enjoyed
summers at Eagle Harbor for 55 (or maybe more) years ... always in the Copper Falls area. Our extended family has vacationed there for five
generations.
At any rate, my husband and I recently retired and hope to finally spend extended time in our beloved Eagle Harbor abode with my brother
Carl Geis and the many family members and friends who join us annually. Despite our many years of coming to the harbor, we don't know many
folks there (probably because we are "up the hill".) Nonetheless, could you please add our email address to your "listing"? " (Wanda and Pat Meehan, 5/8)
"Thanks so much for sharing all your musings and adventures. The site worked well for me. Feels like I am there. Will take days to wander through all you have to offer here and will love doing it and getting lost in the wilds of the beautiful area. We have vacationed in your area and if you don't live in heaven then no one does.
You lucky devil you! Hey , keep up the spirits I enjoy reading what you have been doing ,any little thing. Would love to be able to be close enough to walk to the lighthouse or gaze across the lake. Wow, the more I tell you the more I want to be there. And you already are there. I think sometimes we take for granted the great gifts we have. Location, location , location haven't you heard that before, that is supposed to be the most valuable thing and man I believe you are very very rich in that area. You have the gift of writing and making it so enjoyable to others. Keep up the good work, rest when you need to, but keep on getting up and going, so we can go with you even in our minds. Thanks so much. Oh, by the way , we live in southern Indiana and love, love , love the UP. Heaven on earth I do declare! " ( Beth and Steve Van Hoosier, 5/7)
" I can't believe I won! Thanks for the opportunity to win the pasties! I miss them down here in South Carolina. Again, thanks for your website and all you do to keep the thoughts of Keweenaw on the minds of those who are far, far away." (Leif Anderson, 5/6)
"Hey Humpty,
It's tough to age........I still can't remember where I left my sheep! I'm younger than you are but am starting to "feel" the effects of getting old. My body is hacked up too. I don't care. I'm alive and I have a "positive frame of mind." That means so much. Some of your capers were way out of line Humpty! You obviously are a talented writer. There are folks, myself included, who would gladly crew on the Peregrine. You need to change your mind frame Humpty! Who knows, one of the hunts for my sheep may take me to Eagle Harbor. I'll pick up the cat, the fiddle, the cow, and the spoon on the way and we'll all sit on your seawall and throw rocks.
Little Bo Peep" (5/5)
"Buenos Dias to everyone...greetings from New Mexico.
We now settled into our apartment where we will be holed up until our home
at Sandia Park is built.
Our new e.mail address is bojo@spinn.net.
Our snail mail address is 6000 Cortaderia NE Apt 5101
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Hope all is well with everyone." (Bob and Joan Taylor, 5/2)
"I'm wondering if the John Dunstan that sent you a message was the same one that I knew growing up at the harbor. He had two other brothers and they were from near St. Louis if I remember correctly. What a hoot! The three brothers were part of the harbor crew in the sixties! I too was very impressed with your tribute to Phil Medlyn. He always had that special twinkle in his eye that I'll never forget and smirk. My oldest daughter Christine dated his son Art for a long time. She was in high school and said that Phil always told her, "Be proud that you're Cornish. Your great grandfather worked in a hole." At the time she wondered, "What is he talking about?" We talked last night and she said that he got her interested in family history." (Susan Adams, 4/27)
"The tribute you wrote about Phil was so beautiful. It really let everyone know who Phil really was. Phil was all you wrote about and so much more. He had the most knowledge of the history of the Keweenaw of anyone I know. I loved listening to his stories. Phil definitely left his mark on his beloved Keweenaw. As you say his death is devastating. Phil was a good friend and he will be missed by so many especially his family. Eagle Harbor will not be the same without him. I also feel fortunate to have known Phil." (Nancy Lee Wakeman, 4/25)
"Your website is wonderful. It would make a great model for anyone who wants to reminisce about some location.
My father was born in Calumet in 1919 and I believe his father was treasurer of one of the mines. He and my brothers and I would vacation in Eagle Harbor until the early 60's. We buried Dad outside Calumet in 1975 and that was the last time I was there.
We used to stay a couple block from the harbor - the name I remember and have seen on web surfing is "Sanregret" Did they have some small cabins
and is there anything left of them?" (John Dunstan, Bloomington, Minnesota 4/26)
(Click to enlarge)Sanregret's Resort is now the home of Marilyn Marshall. She has beautifully restored the main house and the cabins.
"HAPPY EASTER, everyone. When you find out how a white rabbit lays colored and decorated chicken eggs, please let me know." (Bob Taylor, 4/11)
"TOOK A QUICK LOOK AT YOUR SITE THIS A.M. AND NOTICED YOU MENTIONED THE FISH TUG "SPIRIT". THOUGHT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED TO KNOW THAT THE "THREE SUNS" WAS HERE FOR 10 DAYS AND DEPARTED THE DAY THE "SPIRIT" SHOWED UP. THEY BOTH SEEM TO BE GETTING LOTS OF FISH, BY THE WAY." ( MIKE HOHNER, 4/5)
"I have spent the last 30 minutes delightfully exploring Eagle Harbor through your photos and stories. The site works perfectly and is very interesting.
Your site was one that appeared on a list of Lake Superior searches for maps and images. Earlier today I entertained a visitor from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada who was trying to convince me to visit that area, especially St. Joseph Island. Wanting more visuals about the description, I went web surfing have ended up at your site, but I gather you are on the other side of the lake in the U.S. Nonetheless, I am inspired to visit the Lake region, perhaps in the Summer. Although it is -40C now where I live, the idea of being on the edge of the lake at this time of year, with the howling wind and driving snow featured on some of your beautiful storm photos, is a bit too much of a challenge.
I live in the middle of a big Canadian city and sadly miss nature. Visits to your site will be an inspiration to travel north and paint images of the other side of the lake. In your biography you mention literature about the lake, it would be interesting to know some of the titles. Perhaps I missed the references so I will take the time to go back to the site and look for them. In fact, I will bookmark your site as a good place to visit when citylife gets too "cityish".
Thanks for your passion and patience in sharing your views with others. Best wishes for many more years of good health and travels." (Deborah, 3/31)
"Curt Pippenger here, John's son. John has been in Marquette General for surgery since Mar 19 2004.He hopes to go home to Laurium on about Mar 30 2004.
He is getting along well but still hasn't regained his appetite.His niece Peg Malone has been living at the "Beacon House" in Marquette so she can be of assistance and bring him home when the Dr. releases him. He is getting stronger every day and is trying to resume his daily walks. He hopes to get back out to the Harbor for some of the
activities this summer." (Curt Pippenger, 3/29)
"I really enjoyed your website. I used to spend summers in Eagle Harbor picking up agates and walking down to the Coast Guard Station. My mother's family owned a home on the road that leads down to the station. The family name was Lathrop. Just wondered if you or your family may have known them. My mother has very fond memories of living there and has never quite gotten over leaving Lake Superior to come to Virginia after marrying my dad who was in the Air Force." (Melanie King, 3/29)
"Marjorie Marshall was hired as the chief of police of Lake Linden! Thought all the harborites would be interested in knowing that. We are so proud of her!" (Nancy Marshall, 3/1)
"The log splitting was probably something your doctors would have forbidden if they had only known. But, you did live thru it, didn’t you???
Which reminds me – anyone traveling to Dearborn Michigan – stop by Fairlane (Near Henry Ford Community College) – the home of Henry Ford. In one of the rooms is a fireplacewith the inscription on the mantle – “The wood you cut warms you twice.”
Of course, my favorite is ‘I love work, I can sit and watch people doing it for hours.’
Much like reading your journal, after one of your outdoor adventures, I’m exhausted, and haven’t even gotten up from my chair."
(rob chamberlin, 2/26)
"Your Journal entry about splitting wood brought to mind a quote from Henry David Thoreau, which I have on a poster near my fireplace:
'Every man looks at his woodpile with a kind of affection.'
Only those who split their own firewood can fully appreciate the thought." (RICHARD CREED, 2/15)
(Click to enlarge.) "Hello I live here in Newfoundland Canada. Bonne Bay. Happened on the site by keying in snow pic. I think the pictures are great. It was interesting. I have added it to my e site page index. I really liked the journal. What a wonderful light house. The deep snow reminds me of here. We moved here last year and had a record snowfall. Just about packed up and moved back to Ontario. Keep up the site. Wonderful pictures. look forward to more." ( Aiden Crewe, 2/8)
WOW! What beautiful country!
"I'm a lucky guy. My son loved his seven years at Tech and my
niece/goddaughter spent three years there after him - and the next five or six years after
that. I visited them both quite often and in all seasons (including one crazy
winter where we X-country skied up and down Brockway - maybe that's part of why
I'm getting a hip replacement this Spring). It is quite a hike from Southfield
but I try to make it at least once a month in the summer to a 501 (c) 3 corp.
nature area just west of Trout Lake. We've bought up a quarry and the remnant
of a cave that is Michigan's longest. Because we love punishment, we (The
Michigan Interlakes Grotto and The Michigan Karst Consevancy) volunteered to put
on the 2004 Convention for the National Speleological Society in Marquette.
Among other stuff, I volunteered to write an article for the Guidebook on the
Keweenaw. I was hoping to do a paragraph on the use of the old radar base, but
Charley told me that the youth facility has closed. I am very sorry for the
employees! Is there a special, out-of-the-way item that you would like me to
include - or would you just prefer to be left alone? BTW: When my son, a senior
engineer for the National Park System (who lives with a view of Mt. St.
Helen's), decided to take a bride, he took her to his beloved UP to check it out. I
volunteered to drive and we had a wonderful time. So wonderful, in fact, that
this sixty-five year old guy brought his special lady up north last year. Of
course, she loved it, too. Anyhow, I loved visiting your web and AJ's prose." (Hal Joerin, 2/9)
"We were hooked up to a California ISP today, and naturally we headed
straight for the Harbor Web. You must have received a good portion of
January's 107 inches during the last week of January after we left, as a
photo sent by the Wacowskis shows our cottage already buried. Robertine
was ecstatic to have been the January winner, making her two-out-of-four
for the season (also sharing honors with a host of others in October).
I'm beginning to wonder who she talks to about the weather and the
future. If it's any consolation, as your results were being posted, we
were snowbound in Flagstaff where 14 inches fell in 12 hours, starting
as we arrived in town. When finally I-40 was passable, three hours west
we were in shirtsleeves!" (Paul Freshwater, 2/6)
"I was in Eagle Harbor last week. We rode our sleds to the Inn and I asked the bartender if he knew you. He said that you come in occasionaly (for a merlot?) and that you were fine. I'd been concerned because you hadn't posted on the web site lately. Your ways of expression are impressive and good for a mental picture of the winters there. Does my soul good. Being a hermit in the cold climes is good. If I'd known that you were in distress,we would have had 13 snowmobilers at your door to help with firewood and such. We rode to Gay on Saturday and had the opportunity to meet the famous(to snowmobilers) John Dee.
Wish that you would have been at the inn last Saturday. Maybe next year. Please continue to write like a hermit from the north country." (Tom Imlach, 2/5)
My-O-My, a hermit from the north country? Better get my act together!
Susan's 4th Report on Tech's Winter Carnival "Greetings from campus! Last night was one of the greatest all nighters I
ever attended. It was cold but the moon was full and ya just have to
experience the atmosphere. Former graduates know the hours of detailed work
that goes into building these statues. It's absolutely incredible and the
array of tools that they use grows and grows. The three big frat winners
and sorority winners are all into detail. I've got to say that the TKE
statue would have finished in first place if they were allowed to compete.
It was unbelievable. I stopped to have a bowl of the Library bar's
wonderful chili.....that "really" hit the spot on a bitter cold night! I
continued on and probably should have passed on the fried twinkies the
Husky Band was selling.....woa! The dining students were having a ball
building the hamburger which ended up looking more like a cross between a
Gordita and a pasty! I had a sign left in my office on my desk that says
they are having "Glow" Bowling?????????? Most of the students were real
hung over today. They were moving slowly and by the looks of their hair,
rolled out of bed and negotiated the stairs to the dining room. The student
from Bolivia, who was supposed to swipe meal cards at breakfast,called to
say he wouldn't be in. He attended a frat party last night and someone
colored his face with a black magic marker. He had just gotten out of the
shower and discovered his face was still black!! It was permanent. I
laughed so hard I cried. I have worked with college kids for 27 years and
it's just a fantastic experience. There are hundred of people on
campus......people stop in the middle of Shelden Ave. to view the
statues. As usual the Downtowner and the Dog were opened bright and early
at 7 AM for the morning after the all nighter. A former student supervisor
who is back on campus for Carny came into see me. He was so proud of
himself for winning the hamburger contest Hardee's sponsored for one of the
service organizations......he ate six big hamburgers in four minutes. I
missed the service organization that was giving breathalyzers to raise
money ....that was a big hit. I think half of the campus failed! This is
such a nice break for the students....to have a good time and forget about
the stress of school for a few days. The Grundie Run will be on WLUC's 6
PM news out of Marquette. The dean of student affairs and two professors
ran with the brothers. I missed it this year :~(. They called to tell me it
was going to be on television. The student that's serving food at DHH
tonight has ADHD and is yelling, Get your hot pancakes! Get your hot
pancakes! Boy is he a dandy.....and SUPER hyper tonight! I've got to
excuse myself for a minute, two of the engineers took off with the duck
tape! Engineering students are ALWAYS trying to fix something! And don't
ever have eight of them move tables in the dining room. They argued about
the angle of EVERY table we moved! I had to walk away. So far the overall
results (everything) are Frats: Phi Kappa Tau in first, Sig Eps in
second, Delt Sigs third and Lambda Chi third.....women's groups Delta Phi
Epsilon first, DZ second and Alpha Xi third and Alpha Gams fourth. The
Canadian students that have been in front of their house for the past two
carnys waving at passing cars wishing them a happy winter carnival must
have graduated...I miss them! It's sad to see them go but there is ALWAYS
a new exciting group who begin the cycle again. I'll be out and about again
tonight. Michigan Tech Engineers RULE!" (Susan Adams, 2/5)
Susan's 3rd Report on Tech's Winter Carnival "Greetings Web Readers and Former Techies, Am I ever late! It's been one of
those days I just sat down for the first time and it's 4 PM. Getting right
to the statue results:
Frats:
The winner is Phi Kappa Tau in Hancock
Second: Delt Sigs next to Wads
Third: Sig Eps
Fourth: Sigma Tau Gamma
Fifth: Lambda Chi
This is the first year that the dean let TKE compete using their Greek
letters but they couldn't be in competition Their statue brought tears to
my eyes....the detail is absolutely incredible!
Sororities:
First: Alpha Sigma Tau
Second: Delta Zeta
Third: Alpha Xi Zeta
Residence Halls:
First Year Experience in first place from McNair
Second: Mama's Boys from McNair
Third: Summit House (?)
Fourth: 4th Dimension (Wads)
Student Organizations:
1. Campus Crusada
2. Air Force ROTC
3. InterVarsity
4. Army ROTC
"I can explain why I am fascinated by the snow fall amounts. In my many years of coming there, I have watched the parties on the beach with all of you bundled up in your jackets. I use my binoculars to see what you are eating and I could almost smell the hot dogs roasting on the sticks & the taste of the smores. I have seen the party at the general store, the laughter as I passed by, the smell of food and the sounds of good conversation. I even got a glimpse of the wonderdog frolicking on the beach. The snowfall contest just lets me be a part of the world up there-and hope to some day be on that beach having a party because I am a citizen of Gods country." (Colleen, 2/4)
Susan's 2nd Report on Tech's Winter Carnival "Hello Eagle Harbor Web Viewers and former Techies!!! Guess what night it is????????? The all nighter and campus is rocking!! Yeah! The statues are really taking shape and it's hard to guess which fraternity and sorority are going to win the big statue building award. The web cams show the Tekes in front of DHH with McDonald's and the Sig Ep cam is the showboat across from the MUB. That is looking good! They usually build behind the Library but because of construction they're in a new location. Did everyone see me waving in front of the broomball field at the Walker cam about seven PM??? A guy passed me and asked if I was waving at the moon! There is no broomball at the rink tonight.....that's down at the Dee with Ice Bowling. There is a nice big full moon shining over the campus tonight.....just a beautiful evening!! It's cold but the brutal wind has died.
The "Rockin Eagle" has music blaring near Walker. As usual everyone is out hacking everything under the sun to eat and the dear dogs are proudly prancing around campus....I've seen every breed from an Irish Wolfhound to a tiny terrier. We don't have to worry about having plenty of snow this year! The front end loaders are working tonight hauling the snow to the sites. I've seen so many people and can't remember half of their names.....see the senility creeping in! I just smile and say, "Hey!" I just had some kind of breaded stuff the Husky Pep band was selling. I'm here in the tech library warming up and heading out again. I've got to get over to the Delt Sigs to check it out closer. That's
another great looking statue. The mood on campus is very festive. It's indeed a fun time!! Some of the service organizations have their goodies in almost total darkness. They all notice me and call out. I wander up and almost have to get my face in the pan to see what I'll be eating!! Tomorrow starts curling and ice skating. I can't wait for the Torch Light parade down Ripley....I have ring side seats for that! Guess what tomorrow is??? Yep! The Grundy Run fund raiser when the guys run through DHH and campus in their undershorts.......I know several of the guys in that. I'll see if I can get them to run in front of the broomball Walker cam for all of the harbor web viewers to see. I'll be the first to report the statue results in the morning around 10 or 11AM when we get the results before the carnival web site does. It's going to be midnight before I make it down fraternity and sorority row and back home. I'll see if the students on Shelden are waving at cars yelling, "Have a good winter carnival." Well, I'm warmed up enough and my stomach is growling so loud I'd better get out before I get kicked out.So, I'll wander out and see what I'm going to be eating next. I'll wander over to Wads and check out the D Sig statue. Then I'm going to head back to DHH to see how my dining students are doing with the hamburger! Usually statue building is passed down from generation to generation very proudly. My crew hasn't been passed anything but I told them to go out and have fun! I'll probably finish the evening with a bowl of chili Wadsworth Hall Student Association is selling. It was donated and made by the Library Bar, my favorite hang out! I might check in again to pass on any exciting news tonight. Classes have ended until Monday. At dinner in DHH one of the students was crawling around the dining room! No he wasn't sauced, he's thrilled to have classes over. Don't forget at this time of year in the far, far north winters get long! I promise to send an update first thing in the morning. Stay tuned!!! From campus!"
Susan's Report on Tech's Winter Carnival "I have the day off and have been walking around campus looking at statues. Baby it's cold outside! Wow! I was waving to my grandsons in front of the Walker Web cam. and talking to them on my cell phone.I could see some of the students and
I could imagine what they were thinking, She finally lost it!!! The kids are out in full force working on statues with pick axes, hoses, irons etc. It's going to be an All Nighter just like last year....bitter cold! The statue in front of Douglass Houghton Hall is the outlawed TKE group building McDonald's in the snow. The dean let them build a statue alone
this year but they can't compete. The early results are:
Fraternities:
Phi Kappa Tau in first
,
Sig Eps in second place
Delt Sigs in third
Sororities:
Alpha Gams in first
D Phi E's in second
Delta Z in third.
Residence Halls:
Mama's Boys are in first.
They're out shoveling the broom ball rink for more playoffs.I'm going to get some hot chocolate and wander over. DHH dining students are still planning to build the hamburger during the One Nighter!
(Susan Adams, 2/3)
"I was reading with interest some of the responses as to why those of us
with no connection to Keweenaw find it so fascinating and I have no
connection other than a sort visit several years ago.
My reason comes from another part of the country. My father was born and
raised in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Cripple Creek is the famous mining
camp south and west of Denver in the shadows of Pikes Peak and sits at
an elevation of 9000 feet. At its height Cripple Creek had a population
of 50,000 people and probably another 20,000 in the surrounding towns of
Leadville, Independence and Altman. I remember my grandmother telling me
stories of walking from house to house over the roofs because of the
snow or the time my great uncle got lost in a snow storm on the way down
from the tourist mine that he managed and had to break into a house to
get out of the storm. Now Cripple Creek is a hardy ghost town of about
5000 year round residents. So mining camps in hard to get to,
inhospitable (to others not me) locations attract me.
My first real visit to the Keweenaw was back in late October of 2001 and
I was surprised to find how much the area reminded me of my fathers
birthplace. I stood on the top of the Brockaway Mountain drive after one
of those famous lake storms and could see Isle Royal in the far
distance. Walking the streets of Calumet reminded me of Cripple Creek.
The whole area has such a sense of history about it that is hard to find
in other parts of Michigan.
Not surprisingly my sister now lives in Donner Pass, California which
rivals the Keweenaw for snow storms. I remember her calling me and
telling that their most recent storm dropped 8 feet of snow.
I also find the power of nature that is so evident in the Keweenaw just
overwhelming. The combination of water, land and the wind remind me of
how fragile we are in comparison to mother nature and is a very
centering experience.
Not surprisingly (again) that I know I will at sometime move back to
live in a place surrounded by mountains and water."
(Jeff Hammond, 2/3)
First time visit to your web site. Have driven through Eagle Harbor many times on color tours,and loved the little town. Your web site is excellent. Glad I found it." (Tom Riemer, 2/3)
"What a treat and a small world, I found on your web site today. I just read the message from David Hoatson. My roots are in the Pontiac area, but my dad was raised on Pewabic street in Laurium too. He was born in 1901. Shurely our dads knew eachother!! It was like I was tellling the story, of how my dad would talk about going out the upstairs window, because of the snow. My dad stayed life long friends with one of his Pewabic street friends. His name was Ed Abrahamson. He lived in the DC area after he married. My dads name was Herbert Johnson. I always drive by my grandmas house, on Pewabic Street, when ever I am up there. Four years ago, the nice gentleman who lived there, was outside. He offered my family a grand tour of the house. I can not tell you what that ment to me! A Michigan map, was still hanging on the wall, in the attic, that my dad had hung there, before I was born. Thank you for this web site. I really enjoy it." (Karen Gauthier, 1/31)
"One is the challenge of predicting the unpredictable, I believe and I love a challenge. We lived in Marquette years ago and loved the north country, so there is a tie in as well.
I admire the fortitude of those who remain through the winter months, in the Keweenaw especially, as it is a different sort of place to me. I wonder if I had the same fortitude, and if I could meet the challenge of living up there in such an unpredictable environment.
The solitude appeals to me, time to read, watch the northern skies do their thing, actually see the star formations without the impediment of city lights to dim them, hear the waves breaking, somehow make all seem right with this crazy world. We visit about every year, somewhere in the Upper Peninsula, often in Marquette and the Copper Country, and though I love the beauty along the lake and the roadsides, somehow in this crazy world, I feel safe up there. Does that make sense to anyone?
Immediately after 9/11, in order to preserve my sanity while we reeled from the horror and fear of the new unknown, I sat and prepared a list of what to take if we had to leave the safety of our home here in southern Indiana. A cousin, I found out later, was doing the same thing, but when we compared where would we go to feel safe, we were thinking so differently. She chose to head into the mountains of the eastern US, ME? I was heading to the north, to the UP. My list stands ready still, and I hope it never comes a time we have to use it.
So why do I enter the contest? Challenging comes first to mind, then perhaps a bit of envy for the hardy souls who live the winter months up there and wanting to give it a try myself. Another challenge of sorts I guess.
I am looking out on 3 inches of snow on top of 2 inches of ice, here in southern Indiana, zero temps, and dreading to make my way outside as the nuts who can't drive in these conditions are out there trying anyway. But life goes on, the sun is out, the sky is blue, but there is no big lake to see, just houses and more houses. Give me some solitude, the lake and snow, a nice combination. All we are missing is the lake---the Ohio River can't hold a candle to Lake Superior, trust me. By the way, our youngest grandson, who is 6 and got to see the Big Lake this last summer, calls it Grammaws Lake. Just thought someone might want to change the maps up there to reflect that. He always heard we were taking him to see Grammaws Lake, now the name has stuck." (Barbara Whiteside, 1/31)
"I'm now living in Maryland, however my roots are in Ann Arbor, Michigan. My Dad was born in Laurium on Pewbic St. in 1900. He was able to tell me stories of the area. Many stories involved the amounts of snow. He told me many times in the winter that they would have to go out the upstairs windows to get outside. As a small boy I couldn't believe that would be possible, so that's how I became a player. I have played fantasy NASCAR & fantasy football so this was a natural to play fantasy SNOWFALL.
Pastys were a part of our life. My dad would make them on numerous occasions, and even developed a pan to make them all uniform. My wife makes them for me now and then, but not enough for my taste, so I put in Pasty on the web and came up to Pasty.com. We ordered we ate we loved. This site brings back many memories for me, as we vacationed every summer to my Aunt & Uncle who lived on Willow St. in Laurium, and had a cabin in Agate Harbor.
So tell the Locals I do have some ties to your area. Keep the snow coming. Looking for 291". (David Hoatson, 1/30)
"There are those of us who yearn(we think) to live in Eagle Harbor and
want to be part of the tradition and the folk lore and the history of
the area. Yet because of jobs, family, and ties to other parts of the
state, can't physically attach ourselves to the area. So we look for
ways to associate--emails and letters to friends and relatives, reading
your postings on the website, helping out with trail grooming
responsibilities, offering our special forms of assistance when able,
and yes, putting in our annual guesses on the amount of snowfall.
Personally, I put my predictions in order to help juice up the snow
machine. The way I figure it, if I guess for extraordinarily high
amounts of snow, it is sort of like priming the pump. If I raise the
stakes with my overestimations, it gets others to try to trump my
predictions and before you know it, you've got yourselves a whole slew
of snow guessers pushing for good snow karma and what rigtheous snow
maker could turn a deaf ear to those pleas!
Getting these kind of snow amounts ultimately helps to maintain the
legacy of the area and keeps my (and others') perceptions of Eagle
Harbor alive and well and accurate. It also helps to counter liberal
Democratic notions about global warming and the effect on precipitation
amounts." (Bob Wilson, 1/30)
"It IS amazing how many people dream of moving to the Keweenaw, enter the snow contest, or both. Here'e my reason why I think they do this, succinctly put by Henry David Thoreau in 1854. This quote is displayed both in my Eagle Harbor home and my temporary quarters in Milwaukee. With the world moving so fast and life so complex, I think many people are wishing for a simpler and more meaningful life.
"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."
(Mary Beyers, 1/30)
"Yes, I am one of the snowfall contestants who annually tries (in vain) to win that delightful U.P trademark, the pasty. Before anyone feels sorry for me, I'll confess that having been born and raised in Laurium and never missing a summer vacation in the Keweenaw, I do enjoy that crusty treat every July, often to near excess. Anyway, why do so many people take interest in this contest? I believe it's the same reason that so many take interest in the Keweenaw as a whole. In a word, the Keweenaw is unique. Whenever I begin to describe this "someplace special" to anyone, I always notice an expression puzzled skepticism; a kind of disbelief.
-it's location; most people have never heard of it let alone been there
-an annual snowfall averaging 250"
-the pasty; a favorite of the residents who are known as 'yoopers'?
-the annual winter contest, diving into the freezing canal
-the price of land and housing, still uncmmonly low
-the cool summer climate while most of the U.S. is hot
And when I revert back to speaking in my native U.P. accent, I lose what little credibility I had if any. So, there it is; the non-yooper hears this 'story' of a strange far away land and wonders, can it possibly be? It can, it does and it is 'unique'." (David S. - CA. (for now, but....), 1/29)
"Dear family and friends,
The Westlake family has made it safe and sound to Mexico. We are settling in well and getting ready to start work. Only a few more carefree days left so we thought that we would update your address books for the next year. You can contact us at:
Amy, Rodney, and Lucy Westlake
Margaritas #31
Col. Jardina de Queretaro
76020 Queretaro, QRO
MEXICO
phone (what you have to actually punch) - 011.52.442.223.3609
Our love to you all!" (1/27)
"Thank you for this great web site. I had a chance to visit Eagle Harbor a year ago during the summer. I fell in love with the area. I am cross stitching the Light House. It is my mini escape. I have always wondered what the lighthouse and surrounding area look like in winter. It is beautiful. I feel like I just went on vacation again. Thank you for all your work and all those great people who have contributed to this site." (Barbara Diette, 1/24)
"My wife, Peg, and myself are new to the Harbor. Last year we bought the CopperEagle cabins on Lake Bailey. We are temporary Harborites as we continue to live and work in central Wisconsin. We love the Keweenaw for it beauty and ruggedness, and like many people can't wait until we can be full-timers. On 1-2-04 we were making our way up Baldy (wish it would have been a little cooler) and we found the gate had been vandalized and opened. The cemented poles had been pulled from the ground. (We were up on Baldy in July and it looked pretty secured). We closed the gate, but it is easy to reopen at this point. Being new to the area, we don't want to meddle, but we need to learn the ropes. Do they open the gate in the winter to allow snowmobilers access?" (Dave Carlson, 1/5)
Last fall I commented in a Harbor Journal about how we are losing access to places we have enjoyed for generations because a few irresponsible people fail to respect the attempts of land owners to preserve and protect their properties - in this case the efforts of The Nature Conservancy to preserve the rare and fragile plant community atop Mt. Baldy. Let's hope we don't lose our ability to hike up to Baldy because a few bad apples seemingly can't accept the notion that motorized travel is not appropriate in some places. No, the gate is not opened for snowmobile access in the winter.
"I've just been enjoying a visit to the Harbor, feeling the sun and wind on the ski trail and seeing the bright white snow reflecting brilliant sunlight. Thanks. Your late picture of the lighthouse in the snow -- picture number 1 - is one of the MOST STUNNING I have ever seen. It deserves enlargment, printing, distribution on postcards, display in the lighthouse, and any
other noteriety that is available. Did I thank you for mentioning the Superior Chess Sets? A Minnesotan who vacations at the Harbor every summer ordered two. There's only one left
for the first chess playing geologist I encounter." (Elaine Wildman, 12/29)
"Thank you for the offer to send pasties. I am sure they taste fantastic and are made to an original Cornish recipe however given that I live around 6,000 miles away I think it would be better that I pass. After such a lengthy journey, I feel that the pasties will have seen better days!!" (Charles Street, 12/21)
Charles, one of our November snow forecast champs, lives in England. He's a business associate and friend of Eagle Harbor's Bill Jacka and was here in recent years to snowmobile. He will receive his prize pasties on his next trip to the former colonies.
"You go ahead and sail and build your snow "bears" and wander the woods and enjoy your wine and bake pies and slide on the ice... just remember while you are out there living to the fullest that those of us who worry when you disappear to the hospital just want you to enjoy life a little bit longer. We want to share it with you :) Even from as far away as Germany. I just can't imagine not having George's Eagle Harbor Web to tune into and know what is going on in my favorite place, in my home. Have fun, George, but remember your responsibility to your fan club of hundreds." (Daphne Hollodorff, 12/19)
"I just wanted to let you know that I was up in Copper Habor, (your neck of the woods), this week and found the Delaware snow stick. I missed it the first time through, but went back and found it later. Thank you so much for the information you have provided me.
I was also lucky enought to talk to one of your very kind neighbors, Dick Lantz. I was having some snowmobile problems and he invited me in and helped me find the supplies that I needed to fix the problem. Dick is a very kind gentelman, and if the rest of the residents of Eagle Harbor are half as nice as he was, you are a very fortunate individual to live in such a nice community." (Jason Bitter, 12/18)
"I hardly know where to begin, the vastness of the Eagle Harbor web sight is a daily discovery. As a U P born / troll you can imagine how I long for home. Just finished my latest discovery in reading your 12-16-03 journal entry. I loved it and felt like I was taking that walk with you. Thanks for giving me a great visual in my mind in the midst of all the
hustle and bustle of living in the city. Will make visiting your page
required reading!" (Randall Ollila, 12/17)
"You're ONE REMARKABLE SPECIMEN.
I wait with baited breath for your latest journals, which I have always considered your treats to we who visit the Harbor Web, and have watched them decrease in frequency over the past few years. Having marveled at the time and energy I knew had to go into both maintaining the website and writing those journals, I felt that you deserved the respite. After reading yesterday's journal...I UNDERSTAND!
When my wife and I visited with you at the Shoreline only a couple years ago, we never DREAMED the fellow we talked to and watched trekking up hill and down was a day over 60! Imagine our surprise at finding you to be 140 plus this short time later!
Well at this rate I hope you live to be Ten Score & More!" (Dan Darling, 12/17)
Whoops! It must be my brain rather than my body that is showing signs of wear. Let's make that, "The Three Score and Ten Snow Bear."
(Click to enlarge.) Rick Finke forwarded this awesome big lake storm photo. It jarred a terrible memory of encountering such a squall line, perhaps the same one, in not the big thousand footer, but in Pergrine, my 30 foot sailboat. I was too busy lowering sail and lashing down gear, and praying, to take a photo, but it was one of the scariest moments in my years of single-handing about Superior. These squall lines move down the lake at over 50 mph so there is no escaping one if it's headed your way. They pack winds of over 60 knots, but usually pass over in just a few mintutes. They are memorable. I'd earlier met another such squall off Isle Royale, which put Peregrine on her side and exploded the the big sail into a hundred pieces. (See October 21, 2001 Journal). Fortunately, on this later encounter I got the sail down in time, lashed myself down below behind tightly dogged hatches, and rode it out.Wild!
(12/19) It seems the photo was not taken on our lake, but the other big pond, the Atlantic Ocean. And it's not a squall line , but the edge of Hurricane Isabelle. Oh well, when one's at sea in a small boat, nasty storms all look alike. It's also reported that the boat is not a laker, but a tanker. With all the hatch covers it sure looks like a bulk carrier to me. UPDATE! Weather pros and web photo investigators now say this is in-fact a squall, and not the edge of Isabelle. I still think it's a Superior squall photo taken from a laker.
I asked Chuck Rowe how his folks, Dr. Bob and Lucille, were. Both are long time Harbor summer residents in their "Tower & Lantern" cottage (the old range light.)
"My parents are doing very well considering their age, Lucille is 89 and Dr.
Bob is 94, and they are still living in their house in Fort Gratiot, MI -- just a section that was once Port Huron, now Inc. It's really amazing, when you think that my father still drives, but you don't want to talk to him while he's behind the wheel, as he starts looking at you at the same time -- you'd better be in good grace with the "One" above! They both like to talk
on the phone, have good memories of the past, and still have a good sense of humor. If anyone wants their address, it is: 4251 Fairway Dr., Fort Gratiot, MI 48059."
"My name is Joe Gasperich and I am currently living in Darmstadt, Germany where I am a Specialist in the United States Army. I had a chance to do some searching on the U.P. on the internet today and I happened to stumble upon your website. I was pleasantly surprised at all of
the pictures, articles, and useful info you provide on your site. I was last in the Copper Country (Calumet, to be exact) during September to visit my grandmother (Elaine Gasperich) before I skipped country and came to Germany. It was nice to see some memories of home so easily accessible. Keep up the good work! P.S. Love the email address!! How I miss those PASTIES!!!"(Joe Gasperich, 12/10)
"There must be a puppy dog in Eagle Harbor during the winter that would "volunteer" to be the Snow Contest tie breaker. At the rate you are shipping out pasties, you'll end up on Food Stamps." (Thomas Grimm, 12/18)
"I was catching up on your musings and had to add a thought of my own, as an Eagle Harbor resident who built my house with the express intent of maintaining the cross country ski trail as it was. Rick and I specifically placed our home so as to not intrude on the trail, and thought we were doing a good thing. Therefore, it is very distressing to us each summer as the few people who still insist on driving motorized vehicles (read in here big trucks and jeeps!) through our back yard! Often at 3 and 4am. This year they even ran over newly planted trees and bushes that were clearly marked and not on roads, chopping them in half. I certainly do not agree with closing off beaches, trails and favorite hiking spots to the majority, but it is the few uncaring people who make some of us at least think about having to close our property to the others.
Soon, we will have several new neighbors, and they will be the ones to decide if the trail will have to move or stay where it is, depending on how respectful people are of these trails. I hope people can be a bit more thoughtful and adult about these changes that are unavoidable, but do not have to be so restricting. It is completely up to them." (Elaine Finke, 11/30)
"Sorry not to have kept in closer touch, and I feel a bit guilty that what prompted this communiqué was the need to satisfy an incurable editor's itch. There is no such thing as a "kudo," as your latest posting would indicate. Kudos, despite the final s, and despite what some permissive dictionaries may say, is a singular word, not a plural word, from the Greek meaning praise given for an achievement. You cannot have a kudo for the same reason that you cannot have a praise. You receive praise, and you receive kudos. The kudos you received is (not are) well deserved. Congratulations." (Richard Creed, 11/22)
A kudos to Richard for keeping me in the good grace of the lexicographers who surely groan as they pursue this web site. The "permissive" dictionary I consulted before my choice of kudo is Merriam Webster's Collegiate. (Yes, I try to be correct. Also keep the UPI Stylebook at hand.) Noha Webster might object to the license the Merriman folks have taken with his work, but the editors of the Collegiate include the word kudo and offer a plausible, and lenghty, defense of the word. In part: "It is simply one of the most recent words created by back-formation from another word misunderstood as plural." And, "It may have begun as a misunderstanding, but then so did cherry and pea." Check your dictionary. Aren't words great fun?
"It may be of interest to you to know that other states have fought the battle of "who owns the beaches" and won: IE the beaches are everyone's. Oregon's beautiful coast line, from water's edge to vegetation line is public land and can be closed to no one. The use of vehicles is strictly limited, as is the gathering of marine life, but beach combing is a public sport. I believe California, and Washington ended up with a similar plan, and many Eastern seaboard states are such.
Glad to see that all those trolls know a good thing when they see it and gave you some recognition!" (Alison, 11/21)
"While reviewing the latest issue (Jan 04)of Lake Superior Magazine here in Indiana a great article on Eagle Harbor, as a star gazingsite was found. It seems USA Today had listed it as one of the top 10 places to see stars! Jeff Kanipe, author of several stargazing books spoke
VERY highly of the beauty of harbor skies.
The only omission noted was a comment on the "pesky streetlight" and its light pollution
affecting this review! I wish I could bundle up and walk to the viewing stand at the lighthouse on clear crisp nights." (Larry & Linda Westby, 11/21)
H'mm, stargazer Kanipe must have been here during one of our frequent power outages.
"I'm curious to know if you or any of your readers know where I might find some kindling for our wood stove this winter. I've been having a hard time finding some.
I love reading your site -- I read it before I moved up this way, and now that I'm here -- well -- hi!" (Michael Moore, mmoore@mtu.edu 11/17)
"I really liked your story about your thoughts on the storm coming in and what it must have been like to be Captain George. I enjoy this time of year when there are almost daily updates at the web site. I was up a couple of weeks ago recuiting new engineers at the Tech and was remined of the tension that dominates this time of year. The day I stopped by the cottage, it was gorgeous and sunny on the remaining leaves. A couple days later they were probably all gone in a November storm." (Pete Woon (N Woon cottage), 11/14)
"We will become permanent residents of Keweenaw County within the next 2 years. As current
members of the "troll" family, we do not wish to immediately show our ignorance to our "Superior" neighbors. Therefore, could you help us with the proper pronunciations of the following places:
Lac La Belle, Bete Grise, Allouez, and Pt. Abbaye?
We promise to practice these pronunciations faithfully. We also promise to live a quiet and peaceable life in God's country!
(Yooper-To-Be in Saginaw, 11/12)
Practice: "lock-la-bell"; "bayta-gree"; "al-o-way"; and, "point abbie."
"I sold my sailboat(S-2 9.2C) two years ago and wonder if you would include some of log entries or recount last summers trip high points. they would make interesting reading to this landlocker." (Bill Reetz, Stuck in Battle Creek. 10/10)
I plan to do so. I kept a very detailed log during the seven week, 1,000 nm sail from Mackinaw City to Eagle Harbor last spring - via Huron's North Channel, the St Mary River, Superior's east and north shores, and Isle Royale. Probably of interest only to sailors, but I'll give it a try. First, must complete my preparations for winter.
"I will soon be shipping a special legislative tribute officially recognizing the Eagle Harbor Snowfall Contest as the only true test of snowfall prediction in the state of Michigan. Will send along an honorary flag of Michigan to be used as an official recognition of this
year's winner." (Bob Wilson, 11/04)
WOW! Bob and wife Cathy (Carlton) are Eagle Harbor's official ambassadors to the Great State of Michigan. Bob also has a lead to a new Abby look-alike for me. Wonder if she would be a Democrate or a Republican?
"Had the good fortune to be in Calumet and Copper Falls (22nd - 28th). Couldn't pass up that Autumn Soup and Spinach salad from the Inn on Friday either. Took a page or two from your notes and hiked a bit. Ann and I explored the surrounds of Copper Falls in sometimes too much detail....a buck wouldn't be caught in some areas we walked through. Sunday found Ann and I
following Tim to the mouth of the Montreal via Smith Fisheries. Didn't get to the Upper Falls....not enough time during the light of the day. But 2 ruffed grouse found their way into the hunting bag. Beautiful walks with bits of snow swirling about. Both strolls were wonderful
mood relaxers. Its no wonder we always want to return." (Liz Benson, 10/28)
(click to enlarge) " I was searching for info on the Ralph Budd and came across your website. I thought I'd send you this old photo taken by my relative Erskine Burton June 21, 1929. It's a bit grainy, but the back of the picture says,
'The Ralph Budd on the rocks at Eagle River Shoal, Mich. Port Arthur is 100 miles across the lake to the right. Duluth is 200mi to the left. June 21, 1929'" (Angela, Toronto 10/27)
The Budd actually ran aground on Sawtooth Reef, the exposed reef at the entry to Cat Harbor. "Port Arthur" is now Thunder Bay, Ontario. For more information and photos about the Budd see Old Pics, and Potluck. (scroll down)
(click to enlarge)"This is Dan Young down in Cincinnati. Just a quick question or perhaps it's an observation.
When the picture of the Light House is expanded to full screen size there appears to be an old style coffee pot and candlestick in the foreground. Are those props you placed there or just an optical illusion?" (Dan Young, 10/20)
It does appear there are props, but it's just the magic of early evening light playing on the wet rocks. The photo earned lots of "Wows!" from Pasty Cam viewers. I'm pretty proud of it.
"I'm Rocky Rascovich, former resident of Chassell, now living in
Piedmont, OK. I'm still trying to get use to life away from the Keweenaw,
I was just recently up for a week and the only reason I was looking
forward to getting back home was to get my wife and kids and come back to
my real home! I use to do weather for Jan Tucker at WMPL/WZRK for a few
years so I do have some experience at forecasting.
Overall, I believe this may be a winter that could disappoint some for the
real snow lovers, but it won't be your typical EL NINO type winter either
where below normal snow and above normal temps predominate. We are in a
neutral pattern for this year which can actually have some interesting
results in flucuations of weather patterns.
I do think that potentially late Nov. and Dec. will be colder than normal
and possibly March being unseasonably cold to. The lake may be as much as
85% ice covered by March 1. I've taken into account that average lake
temps have been 3 to 5 degrees below normal this year."
Rocky forecast a measly 172". I think he forgot that local hero Heikki Lunta has returned from his fling with the babe of southern oceans, El Nino.
(click to enlarge) "Did I miss the location of the gorgeous Peregrine anchorage or are you still holding out. I'm sure you were shaving the banks on the way in as you would if you were entering through the Duncan Inlet or in through the back stretches of most any of the bays out on the big island. Where is it George ? PLEASE !" (Gene Bach, 10/16)
Peregrine is anchored in the all weather safe, but very snug, bay in Allouez Island - a small island way up in the extreme northeast corner of Lake Superior. One of the many very beautiful achorages Peregrine visited this summer along Ontario's spectacular Superior shoreline. Gene's correct, it's a very tricky sail in through the rocky shoals you can see in the photo.
"I was standing in front of your house on May the 18th this year. I was at the Light house, and met a nice gentleman who said he was president of the historical society, and was getting it ready for the season. He gave me a tour. I guess you were off to the south for a few days to either work on your boat or someone else's, he was not quite sure of which. I was surprised to find the large, wood cross bar anchor out front of the light house. It was raised by my good friend Darrell, and I still remember moving it to the maritime museum, originally. I spent a day with Darrell and his wife out at Mud Lake while I was up there. While I was in the general
store, I was talking to the new owners, and I asked the lady if she knew Bruce Olson. The lady standing next to me piped up and asked me how I knew Bruce, and I told her about sending a contribution to the trail fund, and receiving a very nice letter back from Bruce. It turned out that it was Bruce's wife, and he was out working on his boat, so she asked me to stop and say hi, which I did. Very nice guy, like so many people there. I spent some time with my other friend that is still there, Jim Jackman in Calumet as well. Had a really nice time. Got to recall all the good times I had up there. Even sat on the beach at Cat harbor and skipped some rocks, just like the old days. Only had three days, but they were all well spent, and I still love that area. Maybe someday I can get back for longer. As is probably always the case after not having been to an area for 27 years, I was impressed with how little a great many things had changed, and how much other things had changed. Such is life. Too many people seem not to realize that growth is not necessarily progress. Thanks for doing the site and the contest again this year. It is great." (Dan Hipple, 10/2)
"I just wanted to pass on my appreciation of your website. I live in Alexandria,Va and have a fascination with winter weather in general and the Upper Peninsula in specific that for a Southerner is rather inexplicable yet exists nonetheless! I was raised south of Richmond, Va right on the edge of tobacco country ( and in the heart of Pine, Peanut and Pork land) yet I have always relished our rare and short lived snowfalls. Last winter here in Alexandria, Va
(Old Town on the river) was the most snow I have actually seen in my life- with 48' inches recorded by my ruler. Of course you will reach that amount by Thanksgiving or Christmas so one mans feast......
Your website has the ability to make me feel as if I really am in the UP, and with the temp here in the 60's and a thick overcast it is almost possible to imagine it- enen though I know that many parts of your region recieved an impressive early autumn snowfall last night.
I apologize for rambling on in this email but I just wanted to let you know that your website is a true "Window on the UP" that many others surely must enjoy as much as I do. I hope one day to move to more northern climes, but that is a discussion that the other half is hesitant about to say the least (She is a Southerner who favors the native climate, I'm a Southerner who
wishes "Dixie" had a line about the persistent lake effect!) Perhaps one day I will be able to at least get a cottage on Keewenaw, and spend every free day of my winters happily staring at the scenery your website so beautifully exhibits. Again many thanks for your work on this website, it is a true treasure." (J. Tucker Martin, Alexandria, Va 10/1)
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(Click to enlarge)Sanregret's Resort is now the home of Marilyn Marshall. She has beautifully restored the main house and the cabins.
(Click to enlarge.) "Hello I live here in Newfoundland Canada. Bonne Bay. Happened on the site by keying in snow pic. I think the pictures are great. It was interesting. I have added it to my e site page index. I really liked the journal. What a wonderful light house. The deep snow reminds me of here. We moved here last year and had a record snowfall. Just about packed up and moved back to Ontario. Keep up the site. Wonderful pictures. look forward to more." ( Aiden Crewe, 2/8)
(Click to enlarge.) Rick Finke forwarded this awesome big lake storm photo. It jarred a terrible memory of encountering such a squall line, perhaps the same one, in not the big thousand footer, but in Pergrine, my 30 foot sailboat. I was too busy lowering sail and lashing down gear, and praying, to take a photo, but it was one of the scariest moments in my years of single-handing about Superior. These squall lines move down the lake at over 50 mph so there is no escaping one if it's headed your way. They pack winds of over 60 knots, but usually pass over in just a few mintutes. They are memorable. I'd earlier met another such squall off Isle Royale, which put Peregrine on her side and exploded the the big sail into a hundred pieces. (See October 21, 2001 Journal). Fortunately, on this later encounter I got the sail down in time, lashed myself down below behind tightly dogged hatches, and rode it out.Wild!
(click to enlarge) " I was searching for info on the Ralph Budd and came across your website. I thought I'd send you this old photo taken by my relative Erskine Burton June 21, 1929. It's a bit grainy, but the back of the picture says,
(click to enlarge)"This is Dan Young down in Cincinnati. Just a quick question or perhaps it's an observation.
When the picture of the Light House is expanded to full screen size there appears to be an old style coffee pot and candlestick in the foreground. Are those props you placed there or just an optical illusion?" (Dan Young, 10/20)
(click to enlarge) "Did I miss the location of the gorgeous Peregrine anchorage or are you still holding out. I'm sure you were shaving the banks on the way in as you would if you were entering through the Duncan Inlet or in through the back stretches of most any of the bays out on the big island. Where is it George ? PLEASE !" (Gene Bach, 10/16)