From our readers

Dear Editor:

The "mining guys" are trying to get people to call their mine either a gold or zinc mine.  But in THEIR Permit Applications they call it what it is: VOLCANIC MASSIVE SULFIDE. Fact: the ore contains a very small % of gold, zinc & silver (parts per million). It contains a VERY LARGE % of sulfides and TOXIC elements: lead, mercury, arsenic and other heavy metals. About 3% of what is mined is saleable. But to get that tiny 3% many billions of pounds of Sulfide rock is mined, crushed, pulverized and then processed using Cyanide and other TOXIC chemicals. The 97% waste left over (about 34,287,883,224 pounds) of highly reactive and toxic waste and possibly acres and acres of used plastic / rubber used in mining, will be dumped into their pit only feet away from the Menominee River!. The truth is this pit should be called a toxic dump!  

Aquila permit application states: "Leachate from tailings and waste rock produced acidic leachate having pH reported less than 3.0. "" For most tailings and waste rock kinetic samples, antimony, arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, selenium, silver, and zinc are prominent in the leachate". Aquila's report shows this SULFIDE ORE has almost a 100% chance of creating Acid ("Acid Mine Drainage"". Acid Mine Drainage is so bad that the U.S. Department of Interior and the U.S. Geological Survey wrote a 363-page report "SULFIDE ORES". They write: Acid-mine drainage is one of the most significant challenges associated with sulfide deposits.,, Most metals show greater solubility at lower pH values.,, Ecosystem threats are dominantly produced by acid mine drainage, which targets aquatic environments,,, Once liberated, the metals and acidity can affect downstream aquatic ecosystems. Downstream effects can be localized or can extend at least 60-miles from mine sites.

 This deposit is within feet of the Menominee River. It is a SULFIDE ORE. It is in a wet environment: humidity, rain, ground water, snow, etc. SULFIDES will reactant and create ACID! The scientific facts are against a mine of this type and history proves this mine is a terrible risk.

Thank you,

Tom Boerner,

Adjacent landowner in Lake Township



Dear Editor:

Customer Service seems to be a forgotten aspect of many businesses.  With all the choices of where a person can do business or spend their hard earned money, customer service should be very important to the business owners and their employees. I like to buy local and try to do so even when it costs a little more money. Sadly Marinette County Government largely has terrible customer service. It comes as no surprise as it starts with the elected county board members and some people they have hired directly or indirectly including the administrator. Remember that the administrator used to run the county landfill (dump) so we know where some of his real world experience has been gathered working for the county for many years. I have experienced that county board members don't reply to emails even those sent on the antiquated designed "new" county website where a time consuming form has to be filled out to send a simple email. Board Members is it that hard to just simply acknowledge receiving an email or isn't it working?  I have not tried all county departments but the only county department I have experienced so far that has good customer service is Human Resources. I think the solution for this is simple, mandatory training for every county board member and employees about what good customer service is and about giving it. All of the tax payers and visitors deserve it.

 I see the county has found an unbudgeted $60,000 to allocate towards applying for a grant with a firm from Michigan in hopes of improving internet for 4,200 people and businesses that already may have internet available along Highway 141. The tax payers and tourists in the very rural areas need something not the people in this corridor.  he total cost is projected at $436,000 equals $103 per possible user. The projected rate of $39.95 to $69.95 is way more than the $5.99 per month that my mom pays for very fast service in Plymouth, WI. as part of her cable and telephone bundle from a big national company. This new "broadband" method that they want to try in Marinette County does not use cell phone technology so consumers would be locked into one out of state company and their special use equipment. This system would not help the new expensive software and communication system that the sheriff's department uses that relies on cell phone service (data).    

 One lingering question I have is has the back log of 400+ cases in the Marinette County District Attorney's office been reduced?

 Should I even mention the old jail or lack of a full time tourism promotion person?

Sincerely,

Pete Pfankuch, Crivitz



Dear Editor:

It is exciting when a new business comes to town and donates to the community. We are appreciative of Kwik Trip's donation of $1,000 to Tri-City Area United Way.

It is through community support and generosity that Tri-City Area United Way is able to provide funding for our internal programs, as well as funding for our partner agencies. These agencies, in turn, provide the services that are vital to making an incredible impact on the lives of our neighbors.

Tri-City Area United Way fights for the health, education, financial stability of every person in every community. Every donation we receive during our campaign stays right here in Menominee County, Michigan, and Marinette and Oconto Counties, creating changes you can see in your community. Whether you give, advocate or volunteer, thank you for your commitment.

Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. That's what it means to Live United.

Erika Lesperance, Administrative Assistant,

Tri-City Area United Way



Dear Editor:

Something is coming up? What? Voting by Wisconsin Law required a photo ID to vote; simply don't have one, you can't vote. This is giving you time to acquire one now. I can't believe in this day and age anyone doesn't have a photo ID. Some of the simple everyday things that require a photo ID are: Drive a vehicle; cash a check; get a job; stay in a hotel/motel; fly on an airplane; get a Carry Permit; receive government assistance; visit a new doctor; receive some cold medication from a pharmacy.

Please take the time now to get yourself a photo ID. If you're not a citizen you can't vote in our elections. As a citizen it's your right and in my opinion your obligation to vote. I want all people who are eligible to vote.

George Kloppneburg, Amberg



Dear Editor:

I attended the public meeting in Stephenson but was not chosen to speak. I did hand in my statement, but have added a little to it to present here. I was also surprised no one brought up the concerns I have.

The couple of people who spoke in favor of issuing the wetlands permit only stressed "jobs'. Every major well paying industry in the Menominee-Marinette area is looking for workers and hiring. So that is not an issue.

On Green Bay's Channel 5, Newsmakers Sunday a couple of months ago, the interviewer asked an Aquila spokesperson, worst case scenario, there is catastrophic failure, what the remedy? Her reply was we are required to have funding set aside, but you have to remember, this is about jobs. This is not an answer the public wants to hear.

My concern is contamination that occurs offsite to wetlands, ground water, surface water or wells, either underground or dust from the air, what is the physical plan to reverse or stop the pollution? Never mind the funding, funding means little if it is physically impossible to reverse. We see that now in Wisconsin's Door County where 30% of all wells are contaminated due to farm fertilizer. Their only remedy is to provide bottled water.

Dave Anderson, environmental spokesman for Aquila, at a Menominee City Council meeting, when asked about ability to respond to a catastrophic event, could not answer the question.

The public deserves an answer to that question. That answer should be the deciding factor in any permits. If you can not respond to a catastrophic event, reverse to stop it failure, you haven't met all the requirements. How in the world can anyone state that Michigan has the most stringent mining laws if you cannot answer that question?

I believe to a point Post 632 does require a cleanup plan. But the DEQ is accepting funding as an answer. This is wrong.

A catastrophic failure at or around the site now or in the future would release a cancer. And they as one may, there are times when all the money in the world can't stop a cancer.

Please reject this wetland permit and reconsider the others without an answer to that question. The citizens beg of it.

Thank you for the opportunity to express my concerns.

Mike Tanguay, Menominee

Recent stories, opinions and photos

Issue Date	Department	Headline
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Joseph Bikowski
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Kurt Burge
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Agnes Campbell
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Byford A. Carter
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Sandra Dubovenko
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Lorraine M. Ehlert
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Roger C. Eklund
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Kathryn A. Firgens
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Terry Flannery
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Jamie Glish
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Dean Grant
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Mary P. Gribbons
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Mildred R. Haulotte
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Donald Hirsch
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Harold K. Johnson
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Wayne F. Louis
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Daniel O. Lynch
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Ida F. Maske
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Linda E. Nicklaus
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Matthew A. Neshek
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Judith A. Piel
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Robert A. Portlock
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Retta L. Rousseau
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Janice Santos
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Erma E. Schroeder
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Joan M. Thurow
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Emil Vandermause
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Everett L. Waugus
10-18-2018	Obituaries	Barbara A. White
10-18-2018	Sports	Three Marinette Golfers Named Academic All-State
10-18-2018	Sports	Coleman and Peshtigo Claim Conference Crowns
10-18-2018	Sports	Marinette High School Sports Hall Of Fame
10-18-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Wausaukee/Crivitz Share M&O Volleyball Crown
10-18-2018	Sports	Crivitz Takes Down Northern Elite By One Score, Take MONLPC Small Crown
10-18-2018	Perspectives	From My Window
10-18-2018	Perspectives	Country Cousin
10-18-2018	Perspectives	From our readers
10-18-2018	Community - Wausaukee	WBA Christmas in the Park Nov. 10th
10-18-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Athelstane Fire to Host Open House
10-18-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Wausaukee Needs Scorer, Clock Operator
10-18-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Wausaukee Lists Trick or Treat Hours
10-18-2018	Community - Crivitz	Personal Trainer to Speak After Tragedy
10-18-2018	Community - Crivitz	Country Gospel Jam is Oct. 19
10-18-2018	Community - Crivitz	14 at Monday Card Group
10-18-2018	Community - Crivitz	VFW Gun, Knife Show
10-18-2018	Community - Coleman	Healthy Living Library Topic
10-18-2018	Community - Coleman	Village Trick or Treat on Oct. 31
10-18-2018	Community - Coleman	Pound Christmas Parade Dec. 8th
10-18-2018	Community - Coleman	Club Christmas Party Dec. 11
10-18-2018		Bridge Officially Named For PFC Valentine T. Warrichaiet
10-18-2018	Front Page	Village of Crivitz Is Considering Extra Territorial Zoning for Well
10-18-2018	Front Page	Water Testing Continues In The Town Of Peshtigo
10-18-2018	Front Page	Peshtigo School Board Views Tentative Budget
10-18-2018	Front Page	New Crivitz Area Food Pantry Open House Oct. 25
10-11-2018	Front Page	Six Fire Departments Battle Fire Sunday
10-11-2018	Front Page	Large Crowd Attends Ceremony On Anniversary of Peshtigo Fire
10-11-2018	Front Page	Town Of Peshtigo Okays 2019 Budget
10-11-2018	Front Page	Coleman Board Views School Renovation Plans, Budget
10-11-2018	Front Page	Look, Listen, Learn, Fire Prevention Week Theme
10-11-2018	Front Page	George Webb Restaurants To Offer Free Burgers for 12 Game Win Streak
10-11-2018	Sports	Area Football
10-11-2018	Sports	Area Volleyball
10-11-2018	Sports	Area Cross Country
10-11-2018	Sports	Rule Regarding Deer Carcass Transportation Suspended
10-11-2018	Sports	Northern Lake Michigan Fisheries Team Report
10-11-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Silver Cliff Fire, Rescue Plan Hunters Bake Sale
10-11-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Wausaukee Holds 10th Successful Fall Fest
10-11-2018	Community - Wausaukee	WBA Christmas in the Park Nov. 10th
10-11-2018	Community - Crivitz	Booyah Fest Raises $3000 for Veterans
10-11-2018	Community - Crivitz	Crivitz Legion Meets Oct. 17
10-11-2018	Community - Crivitz	CPR Classes At Bellin Health Crivitz
10-11-2018	Community - Crivitz	Fall Harvest Unity Dinner is Nov. 4th
10-11-2018	Community - Coleman	Pound Lists Hours for Trick of Treat
10-11-2018	Community - Coleman	Medicare/Medicaid Session at Library
10-11-2018	Community - Coleman	Hearing Care Talk at Library
10-11-2018	Community - Coleman	FCS Hosts Chili Cook-Off Nov. 2
10-11-2018	Perspectives	From our readers
10-11-2018	Perspectives	Country Cousin
10-11-2018	Perspectives	From My Window
10-11-2018	Obituaries	John Barnes
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Robert M. Burk
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Edwin Charles
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Carol A. Chudy
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Laura M. Curle
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Stanley J. Dudka III
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Fred W. Edwards
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Clifford R. Falstad
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Monica T. Hodkiewicz
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Elaine J. Holloway
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Harold K. Johnson
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Scott W. Klitzke
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Adolph A. Kowalkowski
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Orlin A. Krieser
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Mary K. Long
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Robert Lurquin
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Bernice Missal
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Sally A. Olson
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Connie Pesola
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Marie G. Reichwald
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Wayne Richards
10-11-2018	Obituaries	Linda Szymczak
10-04-2018	Front Page	30th Annual Historical Day is Huge Success
10-04-2018	Front Page	Fire Commemorative Ceremony at Peshtigo City Hall Oct. 8th
10-04-2018	Front Page	Bell to Toll in Memory of the Peshtigo Fire
10-04-2018	Front Page	Peshtigo Okays UDAG Loan For Evergreen Tool Expansion
10-04-2018	Front Page	Greenland Searcher To Speak in Wausaukee October 5 and 6
10-04-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Over 100 Students Given Supplies
10-04-2018	Community - Wausaukee	Wausaukee Church Youth Meet Thursdays
10-04-2018	Community - Wausaukee	SNBT New Wausaukee Office Location Oct. 15
10-04-2018	Community - Wausaukee	American Legion 66 Hosts Annual Chili Fest
10-04-2018	Community - Crivitz	Booyah Fest for Vets Oct. 6 at Gateway
10-04-2018	Community - Crivitz	Winners in CBA Craft Fest Sept. 29
10-04-2018	Community - Crivitz	Free Trip to Champion Shrine
10-04-2018	Community - Crivitz	National Rosary Campaign at Crivitz
10-04-2018	Community - Coleman	Coleman Board To Consider Renovation Options Oct. 8
10-04-2018	Community - Coleman	Coleman Utilities To Meet Oct. 8
10-04-2018	Sports	Eagles Slam Door on Bulldogs For First Loss
10-04-2018	Sports	October is NFHS Activity Recognition Month
10-04-2018	Sports	Crivitz/Wausaukee Share M&O Top Spot
10-04-2018	Sports	Area Bowling Results
10-04-2018	Sports	Area C.C. Runners Have Busy Week
10-04-2018	Perspectives	Country Cousin
10-04-2018	Perspectives	From My Window
10-04-2018	Perspectives	From Our Readers
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Moses H. C.  Adams
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Peter Nyland Adams
10-04-2018	Obituaries	George W. Arkens
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Susan A. Benzinger
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Kristine L. Brown
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Tate Earney
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Ronald Englund
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Richard A. Ermis, Sr.
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Terry Flannery
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Diane L. Foster
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Joyce M. Gyllenberg
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Clarence J. Johnson
10-04-2018	Obituaries	John J. Johnson, Jr.
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Jean F. Krueger
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Stephen M. McBride
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Delores Menacher
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Robert Minzloff, Jr.
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Sue M. Mollus
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Gary D. Nejedlo
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Patricia A. Reinhardt
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Janet M. Shepherd
10-04-2018	Obituaries	William G. Swanson
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Darlene A. Uhl
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Carrie A. Wendt
10-04-2018	Obituaries	Robert Wiedemeier
09-27-2018	Obituaries	Cindy L. Bushey