Annual Burning of the Snowman

Friday marked the first day of spring and because of that LSSU held their 39th annual burning of the snowman. This event marks the end of winter with a hopeful coming of spring. The Upper Peninsula doesn't look very spring-like right now but Yooper Yarns caught some beautiful pics on Friday outside her place near Newberry.

Once spring comes the snow disappears very quickly. I've always found that early spring seems to be the time of year when there is the most difference in weather between the UP and the rest of the state. We are very spring-like here in Caledonia. People are working hard in their yards, the early spring bulbs are emerging and the wind has a warmth to it we haven't felt in many months.

Wednesday is the opening of the Locks and the shipping season. That is the real sign of spring to me. Anyone know what ship may be the first to lock through this year? I don't know but would appreciate hearing from readers who may go to the Soo for the big day or have a source to know about what ships are out there. Thanks, Brenda

Chippew County Courthouse

The Chippewa County Courthouse is one of the most outstanding buildings in the Sault. I came across this blog written about the building. A great site-Michigan Exposures.

Outhouse Races

I was in the Sault on Saturday but wasn't able to attend the outhouse races on Portage Avenue. I found this story at SooToday and it looks like it was a fun event. A great way to welcome the coming spring.

Winter is Still in the Soo

I spent this past weekend in the Sault visiting my parents and celebrating my mother's 79th birthday. I took these pictures to show you how much snow there still is there. The first picture was taken as we crossed the Mackinac Bridge where there is a crack in the ice but it has a long way to go before the opening of the shipping season on March 26th. It was a beautiful day Saturday with a blue sky and the snow is still very white.

Jane Johnston Schoolcraft

I have been working all winter on a children's book about Jane Johnston Schoolcraft who was from Sault Ste. Marie. She lived in the early 1800's and was quite a remarkable person. She was recently installed in the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame.

My question-are there others out there with an interest in Michigan history specifically of Sault Ste. Marie. I would love to hear from you and if you know of any interesting events coming up in the next year concerning Sault history.

Progress toward a new lock

News Flash from TV 9 & 10 web site.

NEW BILL COULD BRING FEDERAL DOLLARS TO THE SOO LOCKS

This week, the Senate is expected to consider a bill that could bring some
federal dollars to the Soo Locks. The House of Representatives approved
$17-million to go toward building a new lock in Sault Saint Marie. With
the money, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can begin to build the Coffer
Dams necessary to prevent water flow into the aging Sabin and Davis Locks.
The new lock will replace them.