Brrrrr its cold outside

Tammy
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With bitter temperatures approaching, yet again, the open waters of the area are sure to be dwindling. Overnight temps plummeting below zero and daytime highs mostly in the single digits, joined with wind chills even lower, treks out in the wilderness for area folks are sure to be fewer and further between. This snapshot was taken off of Big Eric’s Bridge, taken by the local wanderer. Can’t help but wonder if there will be any open water left after the next 7-10 days. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

New KBIC Tribal Council President elected

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SWEARING IN–The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) swore in elected council members on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, including (l-r) incumbents Everett Ekdahl, Jr. and Austin Ayres along with newcomer Mathew Shalifoe, Jr, and incumbent Rodney Loonsfoot. The Council President position went to Everett Ekdahl, Jr., the Vice President position to Tony Loonsfoot, Liz Julio accepted Secretary, Toni Minton Assistant Secretary, and Dale Goodreau Treasurer, rounding out the new leadership team.

 

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.

Events, gatherings and unforgettable moments

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POWWOW–Ojibwa Campground in Baraga hosted the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s (KBIC) 47th annual Maawanj’iding (powwow) in late July. Picture courtesy of KT Creative.

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.

Reflecting on a year of community, progress

Tammy
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REOPENING–Local seniors rejoiced at the reopening of congregate meals at Greenhill Manor. Baraga County Senior Meals Program resumed serving hot meals in mid-January 2025.

by Melissa Newland
As 2025 draws to a close, Baraga County stands as a testament to community spirit, adaptability, and growth. From bustling events and cherished traditions to new beginnings
and collective challenges, each month brought its own unique stories that shaped our region. Join us as we revisit the highlights and memorable moments that defined the year for residents and friends of Baraga County. January The year began with significant civic activity as the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) convened a Special Tribal Council Meeting at Big Bucks Bingo Hall in Baraga. The gathering, held on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, saw the approval and certification of the General Election results, the swearing in of council
members and the Chief Judge, and the annual reorganization, a vital affirmation of democracy in action. Baraga Area Schools welcomed a familiar leader, naming Tim Marczak as superintendent. With nearly twenty years of dedicated service to the district, Marczak’s
appointment was met with optimism and anticipation for the future. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

Skanee fun

Tammy
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The annual Skanee Fun Day took place this past weekend on Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Skanee Town Hall where Santa came to town to hear what the children would like under the tree for Christmas this year. Pictured above are mom Mackenzie Carr along with her daughter, Skanee fun Raegyn. Pictured below right are the Witz girls, mom, Amanda, with her twin daughters (back to front) Addison and Haylee. The two youngsters weren’t keen on sitting on the big guy’s lap, but were happy to see him. Children were given a bag of sweet treats to bring home. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

Toys for Tots, cookie decorating at LAS

Tammy
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Toys for Tots campaign wrapped up its distribution season this past weekend with a celebration at L’Anse Area Schools.

by Melissa Newland
The 2025 Toys for Tots campaign wrapped up its distribution season serving Houghton, Baraga, Keweenaw, Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties this past weekend with a heartwarming celebration at L’Anse Area Schools (LAS), bringing joy and holiday spirit to families in need. Toys for Tots coordinator Rodney Loonsfoot noted that under LAS
Superintendent Chris Davidson’s leadership, motivated Christmas elves (LAS students and volunteers) prepared the toy distribution on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, which took place from 4-7 p.m. in the school cafetorium, and escorted families through the maze of gifts to help select the perfect presents. The event transformed the school’s cafetorium into a bustling festive market place, with colorful displays of toys, stuffed animals, books, and gifts  adorning every table. After the event, volunteers packed everything up in record time, demonstrating remarkable teamwork and holiday spirit. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

Free turkey dinner shines amidst the snow, outages

Tammy
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TURKEY TRADITION–Twenty-two determined volunteers managed to come together to serve a record 399 meals at the L’Anse Methodist Church where a Free Community Turkey Dinner was held Thanksgiving day despite the stormy weather and power outages.

by Melissa Newland
As guests stepped into the welcoming sanctuary of the L’Anse Methodist Church this Thanksgiving, they were greeted by the enticing scent of succulent roasted turkey and a medley of warm spices wafting through the air. Tables were set and laughter echoed softly, creating an inviting atmosphere where friends, families, and neighbors braved the aftermath of a heavy snowstorm to celebrate the beloved annual Free Community Turkey Dinner, an event filled with the promise of delicious food, heartfelt fellowship, and holiday warmth. This year marked the sixth time the event was hosted at L’Anse Methodist Church, though the tradition itself has deep roots stretching back to 1990, thanks to the dedicated
leadership of Pastor Terry Langston. Over the years, the dinner has found homes in various venues across L’Anse, including United Lutheran Church and the former Knights of Columbus Hall, always with the same mission: to ensure no one spends Thanksgiving alone or without a hot meal. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

CTE Construction Tech builds

Tammy
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Students from the Copper Country ISD–CTE Construction Tech program in Baraga County are pictured at their new home build site in L’Anse at 103 Spruce Street. This project, along with a sister build in Hancock, is part of a collaborative partnership with InvestUP’s BuildUP initiative. At a recent advisory committee meeting, InvestUP CEO Marty Fittante raised the program’s expansion, noting, “The Copper Country ISD’s… first success story… was a phenomenal way to get things started off. Now we have CTE home builds happening in Hancock and L’Anse.” The committee also discussed new technology used on the job sites to streamline communication. The CTE Construction Tech program provides this hands-on experience for students from Baraga County high schools at the L’Anse site and serves students from Houghton and Keweenaw counties at the Hancock site. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

Powwow brings Indigenous culture alive at BAS

Tammy
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TEACHING CULTURE–Baraga Area School’s gymnasium was packed with colorful regalia and rhythmic dancing on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, during KBIC Promise Neighborhoods’ sponsored powwow. The program began with the invited drum groups and head dancers making a grand entrance, their regalia sparkling under the gymnasium lights.

by Melissa Newland

Vibrant regalia adorned with intricate beadwork, shimmering bells, and radiant colors transformed the gymnasium at Baraga Area School (BAS) into a celebration of Native American heritage on Monday, coinciding with Native American Heritage Month for November. The air was filled with excitement and curiosity as students immersed themselves in an authentic cultural experience, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and its KBIC Promise Neighborhoods Program. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

Schools celebrate veterans

Tammy
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NATIONAL ANTHEM–The L’Anse Area School began its commemoration early on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, to honor veterans on Veterans Day, hosting a breakfast for veterans at 8 a.m. in the L’Anse Public Library. The morning continued with the traditional assembly led by the L’Anse Middle and High School Student Council at 9:15 a.m. in the high school gym. The Council President opened the event, followed by the solemn presentation of the colors and a rendition of the national anthem by the L’Anse Band directed by Aaron Poniatowski.

by Melissa Newland
Baraga County schools filled Veterans Day with heartfelt tributes as administrators, staff, and students joined together to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The spirit of Veterans Day was alive throughout the area, with ceremonies and activities designed to express gratitude and teach the next generation about the significance of this national holiday. On Tuesday, Nov. 11, Arvon Township School (ATS) welcomed veterans and their guests to the Skanee Town Hall for a morning celebration. From 9 to 10:30 a.m., attendees enjoyed fresh coffee and doughnuts, lively conversation,
and engaginggames. The warm gathering provided a meaningful opportunity for students
and staff to personally thank local veterans for their service, fostering connections across generations. This is a tradition at ATS that students, veterans, and their families enjoy every year. To read more, subscribe to the L’Anse Sentinel online, or buy a print copy at our local retailers.

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