Many events, activities going on in West End

Aug 5, 2023

Samantha LaJeunesse, executive director, GINCC

ISHPEMING — After an extremely busy weekend on the West End, things have calmed down a little. Italian Fest as usual, was a hit.

The Swim Teal Lake for Diabetes was a success, and the Negaunee Fire Fighters hosted a fun and memorable Fire Fighters Tournament. What an amazing thing it is to see our town full of activities for everyone in the family.

The 47th Annual Upper Peninsula Gem and Mineral Show is being held today at the Ishpeming Elks Club. From 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. immerse yourself in the world of rocks and minerals.

There will be a silent auction, jewelry, door prizes, displays of minerals, gems, and fossils.

Don’t worry, there are even kid friendly activities including a scavenger hunt and treasure dig. The admission is free, so there is really no excuse to miss out on this opportunity.

We do have a lot of events coming up, but let’s also not forget our daily options. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail is in beautiful shape and a great way to spend your evenings running, walking, or even biking.

This trail currently runs all the way from Republic to Kawbawgam Rd in Chocolay Township, so if you get tired of one section of the trail there’s miles more to explore.

In fact, the Iron Ore Heritage Trail Authority announced that they have received a grant that will help expand the trail by five more miles. This expansion is projected to take place sometime next year.

In addition to our beautiful trail system we are also privileged with a plethora of freshwater. Teal Lake, Lake Michigamme, the Dead River Basin, and the Greenwood Reservoir are all great places to visit to cast a line or go for a cooling dip.

It’s hard to believe that it’s already August. If you’re like me, you are trying to fit in as much outdoor time as possible before we head back into our winter cocoon.

If that’s the case, put the Ray Leverton Memorial Play Structure at Lake Bancroft on your bucket list before school starts back up.

This beautiful structure will be dedicated on Sept. 9, which is Ray Leverton Day, but it is open for public use now! The play structure is a Drug and Alcohol Free Zone to help give our youth a wonderful safe space to enjoy and just be kids!

There are so many things to do and discover! Stay tuned to the new things I find throughout my new journey as the executive director of the GINCC.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Samantha LaJeunesse is the executive director the GINCC. She currently resides in Ishpeming with her boyfriend, Curt, and their fur babies, Beaver, Shadow, and Bowser. Sam enjoys golf, crafting, and music in her spare time.

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