by Melissa Newland the polished Advanced Freestyle stars, offered a thrilling display of artistry and athleticism, drawing the audience into the spirit of a cross-country adventure. Kaia Dantes, Braylin LaPlante, Leah Maki, Aurora Niemi, Evelyn VandeRee skate to ‘Detroit Rock City’ by Kiss choreographed by Elizabeth Wanhatalo. Local figure skating club spins journey across USA The Meadowbrook Arena was ablaze with color, energy, and excitement this past weekend as the L’Anse-Baraga Figure Skating Club (LBFSC) transformed its annual Spring ice show with this year’s theme of “Road Trip USA” into an unforgettable journey across America, dazzling a full house with every spin, glide, and leap. The club’s talented skaters, ranging from the tiniest Snow Plow Sam beginners to the polished Advanced Freestyle stars, offered a thrilling display of artistry and athleticism, drawing the audience into the spirit of a cross-country adventure with every number during performances on Saturday March 14 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and, despite the pending snowstorm, Sunday, March 15 at 2 p.m. From the moment the final note of the National Anthem faded during all three  performances, the ice came alive in a spectacle of vivid costumes that shimmered beneath the arena lights. Skaters zipped across the rink in a rainbow of colors, bold reds, brilliant blues, and perfect pinks, each costume carefully chosen to capture the heart of America’s musical landscape. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland Baraga County Career and Technical Education (CTE) students demonstrated exceptional skill and determination at the HOSA Regional Conference held in Marquette the end of February. The event, held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, brought together aspiring health professionals from across the region, and Baraga County’s students left a lasting impression with their remarkable achievements and commitment to excellence. HOSA—Future Health Professionals—is dedicated to enhancing the delivery of compassionate, quality health care by offering students opportunities for knowledge, skill, and leadership development. The organization welcomes high school, post-secondary, and middle school students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare, fostering both professional growth and personal integrity. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland Though it’s early in her presidency at Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College (KBOCC), Melissa Kiesewetter’s vision is clear. She aims to ensure that KBOCC stands as the premier institution of higher learning in the region, meeting the needs of degree-seeking students, supporting the local work force through skill and vocational training, and providing top-quality career and technical education for high school students. She took the helm as President of KBOCC Dec. 8, 2025. Born in central Illinois to a family of educators, farmers, and union leaders, she was inspired early on by her family’s passion for education. While she initially envisioned herself teaching in the K-12 system, it was the vibrant and ever-changing world of higher education that ultimately captured her heart. “I fell in love with the energy and the dynamic environment of higher education,” Kiesewetter said about her choice of career. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland The crisp winter air in Baraga carried an unmistakable buzz of anticipation last week as local loggers, forestry professionals, and community members gathered to witness the Grand Opening of the new Ponsse Baraga Parts Hub. The hub opened on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, at 12937 Highway M-38 in Baraga and went from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering cof fee and doughnuts to attendees. The event unfolded as the doors to the new hub opened, welcoming customers to explore shelves stocked with parts and to meet the faces behind the operation. More than a warehouse, the facility demonstrates the company’s commit ment to addressing customer needs. Visitors were greeted with, “We heard. We listened. We acted.” highlighting the company’s focus on the needs of its customers, its service and convenience. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) gathered at the Niiwin Akeaa Community Center for their milestone 20th Winter Traditional Powwow, an event that resonated with vibrant culture, heartfelt ceremonies, and the warmth of community spirit. The snowy UP landscape set the scene for a day of celebration on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, that welcomed both locals and visitors from afar, all eager to take part in a time-honored tradition. As guests entered the center, the unmistakable rhythm of drums and the sweet aroma of traditional food drifted through the air. The doors stood open to the public, inviting all to witness the artistry and unity of the community. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

  by Melissa Newland The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) gathered at the old Big Bucks Bingo Hall in Baraga this past weekend for its eagerly awaited Reorganizational meeting, an event that drew a crowd of community members. The hall buzzed with anticipation as attendees awaited the certification of the results from the Tribal Council General elections held on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. When the results were officially certified on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, the newly elected officials were sworn in to enthusiastic applause and celebration. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland The latter half of 2025 unfolded as a testament to the community’s resilience and joy, with each month bringing its own cascade of events, gatherings, and unforgettable moments. Baraga County found itself awash in summer’s warmth in July and winter storms by the end of December, though all months held the anticipation of cherished traditions. From spirited festivals and heartfelt commemorations to dazzling displays of local talent and unity, the people of Baraga County came together time and again to celebrate their heritage, support one another, and create memories destined to endure well beyond the close of the year. What follows is a look back at the highlights that defined July through December, painting a vivid picture of a county alive with pride and possibility. July As the calendar turned to July, it dawned with an invigorating blend of patriotic pride and small-town camaraderie. Baraga County ushered in the month with exuberant Fourth of July celebrations despite the rumble of thunder and the persistent patter of rain and spirits remained undampened. Early  morning storms on Friday sent revelers seeking shelter, but the heart of the holiday pressed on with unwavering enthusiasm. The unmistakable fire of American patriotism burned bright as residents and visitors alike gathered to honor the nation’s independence with a series of festivities that echoed through the region. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.