by Melissa Newland
Michigan State University brought its renowned “Spartan Bus” tour to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this year, making a significant stop at Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community
College (KBOCC). The visit, which was part of the 2025 Upper Peninsula route of the Spartan Bus Tour, included MSU President, 53 deans and faculty members, and nearly 20 staff members, all traveling together to foster connections and understanding between the university and regional communities. Arriving at KBOCC, the MSU delegation was welcomed by members of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and introduced to the unique educational and cultural environment that the college offers. The visit was designed to  provide MSU leaders with a firsthand look at tribal-college education and to deepen their
appreciation for the ecological and cultural significance of manoomin, or wild rice, which holds a central place in Anishinaabe traditions. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland
Under a sky streaked with the vibrant hues of early autumn, the Baraga County Historical Society, Inc. commemorated a milestone that will be remembered for generations: the groundbreaking ceremony for the eagerly anticipated renovation and expansion of the Baraga County History Museum. On Oct. 8, 2025, at 3 p.m., the grounds of the museum
were alive with anticipation and pride as nearly thirty community members gathered to bear witness to the dawn of a new chapter in local history preservation. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the rhythmic heartbeat of a traditional honor drum song performed by representatives of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, whose presence connected the deep historical roots that the museum aims to honor. The warm pulse of the drums echoed through the air, weaving together stories of the land’s ancient copper cultures and the
rich tapestry of Baraga County’s past. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland
In recognition of Suicide Awareness Month, L’Anse High School (LHS) recently hosted a
powerful presentation in collaboration with Baraga County Communities that Care (BCCC)
and Baraga County Memorial Hospital (BCMH). Students gathered last week in the high school gymnasium to hear the impactful story of Jeff Olson, a seasoned educator, coach, and father who has experienced the devastating effects of mental illness firsthand. Olson’s son, Daniel, was an all-state athlete from Ishpeming whose years-long struggle with anxiety and depression ultimately led to his death by suicide in 2012, just shy of his twentieth birthday. Jeff Olson’s heartfelt account of Daniel’s journey brought a profound sense of reality and urgency to the conversation around mental health. Through his openness, Olson encourages students to break the silence surrounding mental illness, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and supporting one another. His visit to
schools is an effort to raise awareness and foster understanding in the community. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by John Raffel
Local emergency crews responded to assist a 19 year-old hiker who was injured in a fall near Canyon Falls on Saturday, Sept. 6. A report was provided by Don Fassbender, who
said responders from L’Anse Fire and Rescue and Bay Ambulance arrived on scene and used
an emergency response unit donated by Eagle Mine to safely reach and assist the hiker. The individual was transported for medical care. No further details are being released
at this time. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

by Melissa Newland
On the heels of change at the L’Anse waterfront, a fundraising project is underway to preserve a cherished symbol of community service and sacrifice. The Memorial Veterans
Monument, which has stood sentry in front of the old VFW property for years, faces reloca
tion after the land was sold and earmarked for future development. Local organizers, led by
Matt Elmblad and the L’Anse Downtown Development Authority, have embarked on an ambitious effort to give the monument a new home and elevated status at the entrance of L’Anse Village Waterfront Park. “This project will not be cheap, but I think our local Vets are worth the cost, no matter what that is,” said Scott Elmblad, one of the project’s   coordinators, expressing the deep commitment that is galvanized support throughout the
community. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.