Copper Country Today

Foreign exchange students provide many benefits in our high schools and our communities. Perhaps your family is interested hosting, or your student is interested in visiting. Host Todd VanDyke talks with Lauren Scherr from International Cultural Exchange Services.

The effort to save the historic Ford Sawmill at Alberta continues. Mike DeRochers, Dave Stimac and Wayne Abba bring an update, and discuss Ford's historical impact on the region with host Todd VanDyke.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Michael Steber from Bridges Copper Country talks with Todd VanDyke about their effort to help Keweenaw residents work their way out of poverty.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, with Bridgefest just two weeks away, Katie Schlief and Ryan Towles join host Todd VanDyke for a preview of the Keweenaw’s biggest festival.

On Memorial Day weekend, host Todd VanDyke welcomed VFW member Art Krievi and American Legion member David Crowley to talk about the importance of veterans organizations in the Copper Country, the work they do, and the need for new members.

With the ATV season in full swing, Daryl St. John and Michael McMahon from the Keweenaw ATV Club talk with host Todd VanDyke about the rebuild of the Lake Linden trail, the status of other trails in the area, and the importance of volunteers in maintaining the trails for recreational use, and to support the tourist economy.

As we head outdoors, Tanya Rule from the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department joined host Todd VanDyke to talk about summer food and water safety, safe swimming, ticks, and more.

The shift of thousands of acres of undeveloped land in Keweenaw County to public ownership via the The Nature Conservancy continues. Rich Bowman and newly-appointed Project Manager Julia Petersen join host Todd VanDyke with an update.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Michigan Tech President Dr. Rick Koubek and host Todd VanDyke talk about the university's adoption of the Finlandia University nursing program, MTU's continued growth, and other pertinent issues.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Copper Country Intermediate School District Superintendent James Rautiola talks with host Todd VanDyke about the need for teachers, and the status of public education in the area as the end of the school year approaches.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Houghton City Manager Eric Waara spoke with host Todd VanDyke about the upcoming demolition of the big downtown parking deck, and what will happen to the land afterward.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Visit Keweenaw's Brad Barnett talked with host Todd VanDyke about the recent winter tourist season, and what's expected in the upcoming summer season.

As the snow melts, the Copper Country home buying season heats up. Karen Lahti from RE/MAX Douglass Real Estate talked with host Todd VanDyke about market conditions, and what buyers and sellers should do to achieve success.

The remains of two of three vessels that were lost in a Lake Superior November Storm in 1914 after sailing from Baraga were recently discovered. Corey Adkins from the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society talks with host Todd VanDyke about the ships, and life on the lakes a century ago.

Adaptive equipment for those with physical disabilities is expensive and hard to get - especially for athletes. Jen Shaud, Monica Aho and John Velat of Equipment Loans of the Keweenaw talk with host Todd VanDyke about their mission to make sure such equipment is available to users in the Copper Country, and about opportunities for disabled athletes.

Spring brings potholes and road construction. Kevin Harju from the Houghton County Road Commission joined host Todd VanDyke to talk about summer projects, load limits, and the damage caused by recent flooding.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke discussed the dual problems of child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault with Paige Setter-Hallwachs of Dial Help, and Hancock Police Chief Tami Sleeman.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Isle Royale National Park Superintendent Denice Swanke about changes at the park this summer, and ways to enjoy the wilderness island.

Baraga County is working on a major ATV trail upgrade. Barb McEwen and Harry Miron from the Baraga County Trail Authority spoke with host Todd VanDyke about the project, and what it will mean for Baraga County.

The Portage Health Foundation is taking over Dial Help. Host Todd VanDyke talked with PHF Executive Director Kevin Store, and Dial Help Executive Director Rebecca Crane about what the move means for both organizations.

April is Child Abuse and Prevention Month. Host Todd VanDyke talks with Iola Brubaker from the Keweenaw Family Resource Center about progress on this stubborn issue, and what to do if you think a child is at risk.

With the closing of Finlandia University, the national Finlandia Foundation is moving to provide support to maintain Hancock's Finnish American Heritage Center and its related programs. Foundation President Anne-Mari Paster talked with host Todd VanDyke about the foundation, its activities, and its plans for the Heritage Center.

The MTEC SmartZone is one of the Keweenaw's primary business development drivers. CEO David Rowe talked with host Todd VanDyke about the organization's mission, successes, and plans.

The advent of spring also portends the start of orange cone season. On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Dan Weingarten from the Michigan Department of Transportation about this summer's construction projects.

The return of spring also brings the return of potential severe weather. On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with matt Zika from the National Weather Service office in Marquette about what to watch for, how to stay safe, and the really abnormal winter we're closing out.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Finlandia University President Timothy Pinnow talks with host Todd VanDyke about the difficult decision to close the college, and what the future holds for its institutions, infrastructure and students.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Houghton City Manager Eric Waara talks with host Todd VanDyke about the city's battle with Walmart over the giant retailer's property tax rate, and the latest on the upcoming demolition of the downtown parking deck.

Five counties in the western Upper Peninsula are considering adopting a new sanitary health code. Tanya Rule from the Western U.P. Health Department talks with host Todd VanDyke about what it includes - and what it doesn't.

A group in the Copper Country is helping to facilitate people who like to make things. Host Todd VanDyke talks with members of the Superior Fab Lab.

Houghton city planning commission chair Tom Merz and host Todd VanDyke discussed the city’s recent quality of life survey, the new five-year plan process that's beginning, and the role of the planning commission in guiding the progress of the city.

Several Copper Country school districts are bringing police officers into their facilities. Host Todd VanDyke talked with Lake Linden-Hubbell superintendent Brad Codere and their new school resource officer, former Lake Linden police chief Tom Rosemurgy, about the program, and the benefits they hope it will provide.

Tens of thousands of acres of undeveloped land in Keweenaw County are being transitioned into public control. Rich Bowman from The Nature Conservancy updated host Todd VanDyke about the progress of the Keweenaw Heartlands project.

With just a little effort, your lawn and garden can be made much more environmentally friendly by using native plants. Marcia Goodrich of Keweenaw Wild Ones discussed the options with host Todd VanDyke.

Baraga County Prosecuting Attorney Joseph O'Leary recently announced that he would stop negotiating plea deals for those accused of manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine. He spoke with host Todd VanDyke about why he made the decision, and the effect he hopes it will have.

The group Building A Resilient Copper Country, which is made up of a number of community service organizations, is conducting a survey of residents' attitudes toward mental illness and addiction. Host Todd VanDyke talked with Michelle Morgan from Keweenaw Support for healthy Minds, Alysa Cherubini-Sutinen from U.P. Kids, and Gail Plowe from the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department.

Could the five national parks on Lake Superior become carbon neutral? Tom Irvine of the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation would like to see that happen, and talked about the possibilities with host Todd VanDyke.

The CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Race is just a month away. Doug Harrer and host Todd VanDyke previewed changes at this year's event, and talked about the need for volunteers.

Turmoil has engulfed the Houghton City Council. Mayor Pro Tem Joan Suits joined host Todd VanDyke with thoughts about the controversy and challenges facing the group. We invited Mayor Brian Irizarry to be a guest, and were sorry when he refused.

Recycling efforts continue to grow in the Copper Country. Susan Burack and Carol Ekstrom from the Copper Country Recycling Initiative talked with host Todd VanDyke about the latest developments.

HAM radio training begins soon in the Copper Country. Don LaFreniere from the Keweenaw County Repeater Association and the Copper Country Radio Amateurs Association and his son, Simon, spoke with host Todd VanDyke about their hobby, how to get started, and the important role HAM operater play in the community.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has released its biennial report about wolves in the Upper Peninsula. DNR wildlife biologist Brian Roell talked with host Todd VanDyke about the facts, and the myths associated with wolves.

There have been some big changes in Veterans benefits. Joe Battisfore from the Houghton County Veterans Affairs Office spoke to host Todd VanDyke about them, and other services offered locally.

The Calumet Players are planning a spring production of The Miracle Worker. Host Todd VanDyke spoke with George Wagner about the group, and how people can become involved.

The Portage Health Foundation is asking for community input as to the possibility of building a significant regional wellness center. Foundation Director Kevin Store joins host Todd VanDyke to talk about the possibilities, and how listeners can weigh in.

Heikinpäivä returns to Hancock after a COVID-19 break. Host Todd VanDyke talks with Jim Kurtti of the Finnish Theme Committee about the history of the mid-winter festival, and this year's plans.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talked with Lisa McKenzie from the Western Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Region about grants available for low to moderate income families to make their home more energy efficient.

NOTE: the second section of this week's program featured a rebroadcast of the discussion of RSV and the so-called "tripledemic," with Aspirus physician Dr. Tony Malik. It aired originally on November 27th.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke discusses the Keweenaw trail system with Ryan LaPorte of the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club, and Mike McMahon of the Keweenaw ATV Club.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Visit Keweenaw's Brad Barnett about the recent summer tourist season, and prospects for upcoming winter tourism.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Sherry Middlemis Brown from the Copper Country Angel Mission talks with host Todd VanDyke about their Free Store, their Angel Tree Christmas program, and other services they provide.

Maggie Munch from U.P. Kids Big Brothers Big Sisters talked with host Todd VanDyke about how their program works, and how kids and adults can get involved.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, how does the economic development effort in the Keweenaw fit in with efforts being made across the peninsula? Host Todd VanDyke talks with Marty Fittante of Invest U.P.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, RSV is hospitalizing infants and seniors across the nation. Host Todd VanDyke talks with Dr. Tony Malik from Aspirus about how concerned we should be, and what to watch for.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Geoff Kimmerly of the Michigan High School Athletics Association about high school sports, and their approach to the unique challenges facing Upper Peninsula schools.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talked with Mike Lutz from Omega House about the end-of-life services they provide.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke previewed the upcoming firearm deer hunting season with John DePue and Mark Pomeroy from the Michigan DNR.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Mary Niemela from the Barbara Kettle Gundlach Shelter Home addressed the issue of domestic violence in the region, and alternatives the shelter provides.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Helen Taylor of The Nature Conservancy about the significant amount of land it recently purchased for public use in Keweenaw County.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Houghton County Sheriff Josh Saarinen talked with host Todd VanDyke about the drug problem in the Copper Country, and how law enforcement is addressing it.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Hancock Schools Superintendent Dr. Steve Patchin about the district's upcoming millage request, and other issues involving the district.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with representatives of the Adams Township Fire Department about their upcoming millage request for a new fire station, and with representatives of the City of Hancock about their millage request for additional police services.

Five candidates are vying for four at-large seats on the Hancock City Council in the November election. In Segment Two of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Whitney Warstler and Paul LaBine.

Five candidates are vying for four at-large seats on the Hancock City Council in the November election. In this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Lisa McKenzie, Zach Osborne, and Margo Pizzi.

In this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke speaks with Judy Bozicevich, a candidate for the Baraga County Commission in District Five. Mike Babcock from the Portage Health Foundation introduces the non-profits that will take part in this year's Giving Tuesday campaign. NOTE: Baraga County Commission candidate Allan Dantes, Jr., was also scheduled to appear in this segment. He was tragically killed October 13th when a semi veered off US-41, and destroyed a service station. The Baraga County Republican Party will choose a replacement candidate, and we will offer time to that candidate on a future program. We send our condolences to Mr. Dantes' family, friends, and the Baraga County Community.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Bill Menge and Fran Whitman, who are running for the Fourth District seat on the Baraga County Board of Commissioners.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Faith Morrison from the Copper Country League of Women Voters joined Todd to review the statewide ballot issues voters will be facing in November.

Our local election coverage continues, as host Todd VanDyke talked with Houghton County Commission District Five contenders Roy Britz and Daniel Niemela.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Houghton County Commission District Two Candidates Joel Keranen and Daniel Watrous about their views on county government. Please note that these interviews took place before the county board voted to proceed with purchasing a parcel of land for a potential new jail, which would have impacted the discussion.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Houghton County Commission District Three Candidates Glenn Anderson and Dan Holcomb about their views on county government. Please note that these interviews took place before the county board voted to proceed with purchasing a parcel of land for a potential new jail, which would have impacted the discussion.

In this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with 110th District Republican State Representative Greg Markkanen about his reelection bid. Democratic challenger Casey VerBerkmoes did not respond to our multiple requests to appear on the program.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with two candidates for the 38th District Michigan Senate seat - incumbent Republican Ed McBroom, and Democratic challenger John Braamse.

The effort to restore many of Calumet's historic buildings continues to gather momentum. Jeff Ratcliffe from the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance joins host Todd VanDyke to discuss the progress, in advance of a community meeting this Thursday.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Todd VanDyke opens our coverage of the November election by talking with Houghton County Clerk Jennifer Kelly about the process, and the options voters have for casting their ballots.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, Todd VanDyke talks with the new director of the Portage Lake District Library, Katrina Linde-Moriarty.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Krissy Martens from Dial Help about Suicide Awareness Month, and their Community Stakeholder Survey.

Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly is celebrating 40 years of service to Copper Country Seniors. Cathy Kass-Aten and Gail Ross join host Todd VanDyke with an update.

On this segment of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with Copper Country Intermediate School District Superintendent Jim Rautiola about school restarting in the area, along with challenges districts are facing finding teachers and bus drivers.

Is this the time to start your kids in music lessons? Host Todd VanDyke talks with Andrew Schaud about opportunities provided by the Copper Country Suzuki Association.

Aspirus Physician's Assistant Andy Tait talks with host Todd VanDyke about getting kids back into the school routine, and keeping them healthy and well-balanced.

Host Todd VanDyke explore the world of junior hockey with Blake Hietala, the coach of the new Wisconsin Windigo, as they open training camp in Houghton.

Houghton County Fair board members Rick Freeman and Kathy Caspary join Todd VanDyke to talk about the upcoming Houghton County Fair, and the effort it takes to put it together.

Main Street Calumet Director Leah Polzien joined host Todd VanDyke to preview the upcoming Pasty Fest celebration, discuss their management of local farm markets, and update the ongoing effort to renovate historic buildings in Calumet.

Brian Sarvello from U.P. Michigan Works talks with host Todd VanDyke about internship opportunities for high school students preparing for careers in the skilled trades.

Host Todd VanDyke talks with Hancock City Manager Mary Babcock about the city's revised zoning ordinance, which will be the subject of a public hearing August 10, and about the city's new business and technology park, and other news.

Rozsa Center director Mary Jennings talks with host Todd VanDyke about the upcoming season, and how entertainers are selected to appear at the venue at Michigan Tech.

A major new report about health in the Upper Peninsula has been released. Todd speaks with Western Upper Peninsula Health Department Health Officer Kate Beer.

On this edition of Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke talks with new Finlandia University President Timothy Pinnow about what brought him to the Copper Country, and the direction of the college.

On this week's Copper Country Today program, host Todd VanDyke talks with the four candidates running for the Republican nomination for Houghton County District Two Commissioner. In this segment, meet Glenn Schuldt and Lou Ambuehl.

Candidates Richard Nye and Joel Keranen are featured in another posted segment.

On this week's Copper Country Today program, host Todd VanDyke talks with the four candidates running for the Republican nomination for Houghton County District Two Commissioner. In this segment, meet Richard Nye and Joel Keranen.

Candidates Glenn Schuldt and Lou Ambuehl are featured in another posted segment.

In advance of the upcoming August 2nd primary, host Todd VanDyke spoke with Ron Gray and Melody Wagner, who are running for the Republican nomination for the 109th State House seat.

In advance of the upcoming August 2nd primary, host Todd VanDyke spoke with Jenn Hill and Joe Boogren, who are running for the Democratic nomination for the 109th State House seat.

On Copper Country Today, host Todd VanDyke chases European frog bit and phragmites with Connor Ford and Stelle Barone from the Keweenaw Invasive Species Management Area.

On this week's Copper Country Today program, author Larry Jorgensen talks with host Todd VanDyke about how a shipload of Chryslers and its crew was saved after an icy Keweenaw shipwreck a century ago.

It will be a busy and fun summer in Hancock. Deb Mann from the Downtown Development Authority shares information about Key Ingredients, Canal Rock Concerts and Summer Movies. Mike Babcock from the Hancock Canal Run discusses the Keweenaw's biggest summer race.

The Michigan Tech Employees Federal Credit Union is changing its name. David Rautiola and Paula Magowan talk with host Todd VanDyke about the reason, and about the credit union philosophy.

Curt Webb and Cynthia Hodges from the Keweenaw Co-op talk with host Todd VanDyke about the purpose of their organization, and their planned expansion into downtown Hancock.

Don Severa and Mel Jones from the Keweenaw County Historical Society discuss the rich history of that region, and outline their summer Adventures in History programs.

Finlandia University is celebrating 125 years this month. University archivist Joanna Chopp talks with Todd VanDyke about the college's rich history.

Finlandia University is celebrating 125 years this month. Clare Zuraw from the Finnish-American Folk School talks with Todd VanDyke about the school, and some of the celebration events ahead.

A new state report paints a dismal picture of Michigan's K-12 education system. Rehema Clarken and Jeffrey Thornton from the Keweenaw Learning Center offer reaction and suggestions. 

Following several teen suicides in our region, Aspirus psychiatrist Dr. Jason Bombard talks with host Todd VanDyke about warning signs, and what to do if you see them.

Brad Barnett from the Keweenaw Convention and Visitors Bureau reviews the winter tourism season, and previews the summer season.

Michigan Manufacturers Association president John Walsh talks with host Todd VanDyke about manufacturing in the Keweenaw, and about a new program at Hancock High School that will help prepare students for manufacturing careers.

A criminal record can hinder getting a job. Expunging convictions can help. Darrin Widder from U-P Michigan Works talks with Todd VanDyke about the Clean Slate Expungement Event coming to the Copper Country.

Bicycle season has arrived in the Keweenaw. Todd VanDyke talks bicycle safety with "Tour da Yoop eh" organizer James Studinger, and also previews that event, which will visit the Copper Country later this summer.

Home listings are few and far between in the Copper Country. Todd VanDyke talks with veteran real estate broker and appraiser Tom Tikkanen about the cause, and how buyers and sellers should react.

Sea Change Expeditions sails Lake Superior to raise awareness about warming lake temperatures, pollution and invasive species. Ahead of their visit to the Copper Country, host Todd VanDyke talks with Captain Mike Gordon, Katya Gordon and their crew.

After two years on the sideline because of COVID-19 concerns, Bridgefest will be back this year! Todd VanDyke talks with organizers Tara Arens, Katie Schleif and David Crowley about the Copper Country’s biggest summer celebration.

Women played an outsized role in the historic 1913 Keweenaw copper strike. Historian Allie Penn talks with host Todd VanDyke about the groundbreaking actions they took.

Craig Waddell, one of three candidates running for the open seat on the Houghton City Council in the May 3rd general election, talks with Todd VanDyke about the parking deck, waterfront development, and other pressing issues. 

Robyn Johnson, one of three candidates running for the open seat on the Houghton City Council in the May 3rd general election, talks with Todd VanDyke about the parking deck, waterfront development, and other pressing issues. 

Mike Salmi, one of three candidates running for the open seat on the Houghton City Council in the May 3rd general election, talks with Todd VanDyke about the parking deck, waterfront development, and other pressing issues. 

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Paige Setter-Hallwachs and Virginia Lambert from Dial Help talk with host Todd VanDyke about the services they offer, and their upcoming Puppy Parade.

Spring weather in the Copper Country can be turbulent. Matt Zika from the National Weather Service talks with host Todd VanDyke about what to watch for, and how to stay safe.

The State of Michigan will spend $4.7 billion on infrastructure. What will be coming to the Copper Country, and will we get a fair share? Republican State Senator Ed McBroom breaks it down, and also discusses ideas for oversight and ethics reform in Lansing with Todd VanDyke.

The City of Houghton has some land that's not being used. Where did it come from, should it be sold, and for what could the proceeds be used? City Manager Eric Waara talks with Todd VanDyke.

Copper Country Angel Mission Board Member Sherry Middlemis-Brown talks with Todd VanDyke about a new home for one of the Copper Country’s most vital charities, and how listeners can help make it happen.

Dennis Livesay and Tim Havens from Michigan Tech talk with Todd VanDyke about cutting edge computer projects at the university, and the upcoming MTU Computer Showcase.

Learn more about the Elaine Bacon Literacy Project, which helps families of foreign students and faculty improve their English. Beth Flynn and Denise Heikinen discuss the joys of cultural exchange, the longlasting bonds formed, and some of the more humorous aspects of the experience.

Deb Mann and John Diebel of the Hancock Recreation Committee talk exciting news regarding the new Hancock Dog Park. There are two different opportunities for you to help out, one just by voting.