8/23/2024

CRYSTAL FALLS - The town of Crystal Falls will be very busy as fungus lovers flock to celebrate the Humungous Fungus Festival this weekend. More than 30 years ago, scientists discovered the giant Armillaria gallica that covers almost 37 underground acres. The giant fungus weighs an estimated more than 100 tons and is estimated to be more than 1500 years old. This year’s celebration kicks off on Friday, with city-wide rummage sales that continue through Saturday. Saturday, the Festival Parade proceeds down Superior Avenue starting at 10 am. You don’t need to register, just show up. There are all kinds of activities planned, including the return of the 100 sq. ft. Humongous Fundgus Pizza, being served in front of Crystal Steel House. For more information and a complete schedule of events, go to crystalfallsmi.com

8/22/2024

ODANAH - A 37-year-old Odanah man is facing a total of 18 charges after being accused of stealing money from his employer. Kaleb Julian, 37, was working at Blue Ribbon Kennels in Ashland. Several months after he was hired, money was found to missing from a bank deposit envelope and surveillance video showed a man enter the business and taking money from the cash drawer. There were several other similar incidents. The victim told investigators she suspected Julian and certain physical details on surveillance matched Julian. He admitted to taking the money due to financial difficulties. He was arrested and when his backpack was searched, drugs were found. The most serious charges Julian faces include multiple burglaries and possession of illegal prescription drugs. Julian made his first appearance on all charges on Monday.

8/22/2024

BESSEMER - The Gogebic County Board of Commissioners accepted and placed into record a letter from County Forest Supervisor Darla Lenz notifying the board that the Nature Conservancy now owns 11 acres adjacent to the west-side campground of the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. The Ottawa National Forest wants to acquire that property. The property is on the southern shore of Lake Superior, which would offer another access point to the lake, with a ramp that almost any craft could use. The land will be acquired using Critical Inholding 2023 appropriated funds.