Enhance Escanaba Raises Funds for First U.P. Refrigerated Ice Rink
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ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Summer may be quickly approaching, but a Delta County nonprofit has its sights set on a cold-weather project.
The City of Escanaba used to be home to several outdoor ice rinks. However, that has not been the case for some time.
“Escanaba in the ’50s and ’60s had four or five ice rinks,” said Karen Moore, President of Enhance Escanaba. “It was slowly reduced to two, one at Stephenson and one at Royce Park. Eventually, it was reduced to one they had at the Civic Center. They tried that for a year or two, and it just didn’t work because it has to be 15 degrees or colder to make ice. They could make ice for a couple weeks, and then it would warm up, so it wasn’t cost-effective.”
A few years ago, Enhance Escanaba came up with the idea of installing a refrigerated ice rink in Ludington Park.
“We wanted to bring back that experience of skating outdoors,” Moore said. “We have this wonderful park. It’s utilized in the summer, but in the winter, it’s very underutilized. A refrigerated ice rink is kind of new technology, and we’re going to be the first one in the U.P.”
That technology involves chillers, which ensure a frozen rink no matter the weather.
“The chillers only run when the temperature is above 20 degrees,” Moore explained. “If we have colder weather, then they don’t run that much.”
The chillers would also allow for a longer skating season than a traditional outdoor rink.
“The distributor, they have a formula based on our climate,” said Moore. “They say from November 1 to the end of March, you can skate under 50 degrees. Even at the height of skating when our weather was conducive to skating, there was no way that we were skating for five months.”
To make this dream a reality, Enhance Escanaba has been working to secure $250,000. That is being done partially through crowdfunding and partially through grant funds from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
“Because we made the rink handicap accessible, we qualified for an extra $25,000, so right now we’re in the process of raising the $75,000,” Moore said. “As soon as we do, the MEDC matches it, and then we’ll have our goal of $250,000. We’re getting there! We still need help, but we seem to be generating enthusiasm.”
Through June 30, the public can support the project on Patronicity, where the fundraising currently sits at nearly $30,000. If the crowdfunding effort is successful, the community will be able to enjoy the rink this winter.
“We want to encourage other events, like a winter festival, maybe sled dog rides, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, Christmas tree decorating,” said Moore. “Someone even suggested snow volleyball. We want kids growing up now to have outdoor ice skating memories like we did when we were skating. That’s the whole idea.”
To back the project on Patronicity or to learn more about it, click here. Additional information is available at enhanceescanaba.org."
Little Trout Lake Park Opens to Community at KI Sawyer
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KI SAWYER, Mich. (WZMQ) – A major investment in recreation and community revitalization is being celebrated this weekend at K.I. Sawyer.
The grand opening of the newly renovated Little Trout Lake Park marks another step forward in the area’s ongoing transformation.
What was once a recreational area for Air Force families has become the centerpiece of community life once again. The new green space is the result of nearly $1 million in state investment aimed at improving recreation, wellness, and economic opportunity at KI Sawyer.
“We’ve got a 5k running race. We’re going to have some amazing things to do, we’re going to a food truck and some great vendors, a bouncy house, and live music,” said Marquette County Recreation Specialist, Sven Gonstead.
The trail system is designed to connect residents and visitors to key destinations while encouraging outdoor activity. At the heart of the project is Little Trout Lake Park, which has undergone a dramatic transformation.
“To make it a more desirable place to live, to attract employees, and to make it more desirable to live here,” said Gonstead.
The renovated park features a lakeside pavilion, a playground, pickleball, and basketball courts, ADA accessible amenities, picnic areas, and a beach along the shores of Little Trout Lake.
“It’s a great body of water, and we did a lot of work on the beach also. So, the beach is in wonderful shape, to you know, just relax and enjoy the place,” said Gonstead.
The project was made possible through a nearly $1 million Michigan Department of Natural Resources SPARC grant. For Javier Lopez, it’s just a great place to go kayaking.
“I love it. I absolutely love it. I didn’t see what it looked like before, but I know what it looks like now, and it’s great. We’ve been here maybe six times, I’d say, and caught a lot of fish,” said Lopez.
County officials say the improvements represent one of the most visible investments in the former base community since Marquette County assumed ownership of the area.For more information and directions to the park, visit: https://www.mqtcoplan.org/slcg-ltl"
Adventure Team Announcements: April Update
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What’s inside:A note from the Director of AdventureCABLE POQUETTE :: The impact of Adventure TeamAdventure Team Registration :: April 18 :: BE READYVolunteer with Adventure Team :: Today’s kids need youNew on Made UP Podcast906AT/Pactimo Gear Store :: Open until 4/122026 Leadership Summit :: Sign up TODAYMTRS :: Adventure Your WayEvents with 906AT
A note from the Director of Adventure
“The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.”I have always enjoyed reading stuff from Stephen Covey. I credit his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, for opening my 20-something eyes to how much I had left to learn about leadership and people. I was 25 at the time – a point in life when ya feel like you know it all (until you pick up a book written by a guy much older and wiser). Seriously, tho. The book had a real impact on me as a young man – an impact that has stuck with me into my 50’s. If you haven’t read it… I highly recommend it. I’m gonna date myself, and you too, if ya remember what I’m about to reference. Mastercard did a marketing campaign in the late 90’s that highlights emotional experiences over physical purchases. Each commercial would end with the tagline “There are some things money can’t buy.” To honor that iconic campaign, I’m gonna prove it. This is your April newsletter easter egg! Send me a story about an experience you or one of your friends had during a 906AT event and how it has impacted you (them). If you’re a parent, send us a story that highlights an experience from one of your kids, and what they’ve learned from it. Include a photo with your story, please. We’ll share those stories throughout the day on Tuesday (April 7th) via social media and select a winner that night. If you win, you’ll get a season pass to the endurance trilogy!I started with a story about Stephen Covey. I’ll end with one, too. Let’s talk about “Keeping the main thing the main thing.” The world is full of distractions and noise. Now more than ever. I can tell you for us, a small nonprofit with three employees, it’s not just about distractions and noise, it’s about manpower, too. It can be hard to keep the main thing the main thing, but we must. And what is the main thing? The main thing is giving kids a chance to: get outside, learn about their community, experience adventure, make new friends, feel valued, take chances, overcome failure, and learn how to embrace the journey. That is not an exhaustive list, and those items are not listed in order of importance. They’re all important. They’re all the main thing. And we need to make sure through all of the fun we have on our own adventures that we never forget it… Because if this community can’t prioritize adventure for these kids…. Who will?
“It’s something to fall back on, a stress reliever – it helps kids in tough times.” -Cable Poquette
I first interviewed Cable Poquette in 2020 for the TV6 Morning News. I shared his story then – as 9-year-old Cable completed his first Crusher EX40 – riding 54 miles. He inspired me then, much in the same way he continues to inspire me today. You can watch that first interview here. It’s worth watching – you can see the remarkable young man he was becoming – the Cable I interviewed again last week. I sat down with him to learn about the impact of growing up in Adventure Team, riding shotgun to the ups and downs his dad, Todd faced as he began the program in 2014 and grew it to what it is today. If you’ve ever wondered how Adventure Team programming impacts a child, I can’t think of a better example, than Cable Poquette.“Biking and Adventure Team has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. When it first started, I was too young to participate, but I was always there,” says Cable.Cable began riding with Adventure Team Marquette in 2019, he looks back on that first year with a smile. He says it was an amazing experience. He admits he wasn’t used to riding with other kids, but he enjoyed the noncompetitive atmosphere. “It made us all better,” says Cable. Better on the bike and better human beings. He says Adventure Team broadened his horizons. He met kids from other schools, kids from outside his social circle, and he learned how to interact with adults.His confidence in biking grew. His skills grew. And it wasn’t long before he was riding with kids older than himself. He became a leader in the program. “The one thing that I learned pretty quickly was – don’t make kids feel bad. Everybody is where they are at. I wanted to always help – I liked telling them that they’re doing a good job – not bragging about myself.” Cable recalls learning from the other kids and adults in the program, watching the way they supported one another. It’s a lesson he continues to mimic today. “Growing up in Adventure Team and playing basketball – my dad would always tell me to show up and be the best person I can be – and help others be the best person they can be.”Cable says the best thing about the Adventure Team program is the way it brings people together and expands their world. “It helps kids get comfortable with meeting new people and making new friends. For kids who don’t like sports or don’t know what they like to do yet… at least they’re trying it – and most kids fall in love with biking. It’s something to fall back on, a stress reliever – it helps kids in tough times.”When it comes down to it – when you strip everything away – egos and influence – Cable says biking is biking – you go out and have fun. Cable has spent countless hours riding with his dad – an activity that forged a bond, one that’s been tested and tried through conditions, a changing world of technology and uncertainty, and the typical ups and downs of being a teenager learning to navigate life.
“Biking was always something we could do together, it felt natural. I looked up to him. I still do to this day. It connected us in a different way, more than anything else. Biking was so free – we could talk about anything – we’d bike it out and talk it out.”Eventually Cable became a youth coach in the program, which he loved. Seeing the program from the coach’s perspective. He says he laughed a lot, watching the kids have so much fun, telling jokes during the rides, he says it was an awesome experience watching each of the kids grow up.Two years ago, Cable had to make a decision – stay with Adventure Team or focus on his other passion, basketball. He ultimately decided he wanted to focus on improving his skills on the basketball court. But, he misses Adventure Team. He’s hoping he’ll be able to get back involved this year.“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to break the routine of working out and biking – it’s like an addiction now – and that’s a good thing. I meet so many people, I feel better, it makes your state of mind so much better. It can help you through anything – anger, sadness, depression, it’s almost like a different type of medicine.”Think about those words – from a 15-year-old boy – who isn’t spending countless hours on his phone – but rather in the outdoors. His parents have in fact limited his time on devices and playing video games. They’ve set guidelines for when he is online, no social media, no TikTok. And Cable isn’t resentful – in fact, he seems grateful – even when his friends give him a hard time about it. He claps back – encouraging them to go outside – he reminds them that they’re in the prime of their life and should be enjoying this time before they have to get really serious – and you know, pay bills, have a job and stuff.“I love playing video games – and once I get into it, it’s hard to stop. But, once I put my phone down or turn off my Xbox, it’s like a whole different experience. Being online is fun, but you’re missing so much if you’re just stuck on your phone.”It’s about balance. Our world is evolving. Technology plays a role, but so do the experiences and lessons that happen in the outdoors and through programs like Adventure Team. The ethos of 906AT have shaped Cable – they’ve essentially been the framework of his childhood. And he’s better for it. He’s grounded. He’s humble. He’s empathetic. He’s supportive. And he’s proof that the work that goes into Adventure Team, the volunteer hours, the planning and logistics are worth it.Cable says he didn’t realize how big 906 Adventure Team had gotten until a year or two ago. “It’s awesome what my dad and everyone are doing here. It’s helping other communities – it’s helping people get healthier and it’s bringing people together.”And Cable, just like his dad, wants every child to have the opportunity and chance to grow through Adventure Team.“I’m living the perfect life. I’m really happy with the parents that I have. I couldn’t have wished for better.”By Elizabeth Peterson
Adventure Team Registration :: April 18 :: BE READY
We dedicated the January newsletter to getting you prepared for the 2026 season of Adventure Team. Now with less than two weeks to registration, we want to reiterate a few items, so you’re ready and April 18th doesn’t sneak up on you!First – registration is earlier this year. Tell your friends, co-workers, other families in the program. We don’t want anyone to miss the opportunity to participate.Dates to remember:April 17 – Volunteers register their kids early (must complete background check and complete training)April 18 – Public registration (some communities will sell out right away)April 26 – Registration closesSecond – ahead of registration day, click the link below and set up your account through Reg Online. This will simplify the process come registration day.Third – reach out now with questions about the season. We love hearing from you! Call, email or stop by with questions or concerns.We can’t wait for another season of Adventure Team! We’ve added two new communities this year – which means more kids on bikes, adventuring, growing, conquering obstacles, and finding their limits. You can learn more about the location, days, and expectations of Adventure Team here.
Registration Link
Volunteer with Adventure Team – Today’s kids need you!
Who wants to adventure this summer? Lucky for you – most of our youth adventure teams still have opportunities available for volunteer coaches. Adventure Teams in both Michigan and Wisconsin are in need of adults to get kids out on bikes for adventures. No experience is necessary, and you don’t have to be a great cyclist. For roughly every three volunteers – 10 additional kids get to ride. You will be rewarded with more stories than you can imagine, laughter, fun, dirt, sweat and lots of learning opportunities for both you and the youth riders.The teams with the current greatest need for volunteers are:
For the returning teams (top 4 in the table), this is how many coaches are needed so that the same number of kids can ride this year as have ridden in the past – this does not account for growth in the team numbers.And you also have an opportunity to volunteer for the first year of one of the teams for the two new communities – Gaylord or Petoskey, MI. Registering 20 volunteer coaches would allow each of the new teams to have about 30 riders.Each community team meets once a week for 2 hours. You do need to pass a background check and complete online training. 80% attendance is expected during the season. You can find more information about the teams and their schedule HERE.Use the link below to register as a coach. Please note that the online coach training is due 4.15.26.
Volunteer Registration
New on MADE UP!Episode 44 – Steve Fleming – Steve is the Director of Transportation and Facilities at the Cheboygan School District in lower Michigan. He’s also the Board President of Paddle for Heroes. Steve missed the 48-hour cutoff for the 2026 Polar Roll Ulta, but he pushed on and unofficially finished. Why’d he do it? And how’d he get to the finish? Tune it to find out!Episode 45 – Elizabeth Peterson – Elizabeth celebrates her 1-year anniversary with 906 Adventure Team as the Champion for Adventure. The ups and downs of her transition, overcoming self doubt, and moving from an observation role to a role of action and service. Plus, her mission to talk Todd into designing a women’s hat!Episode 46 – Don Britton – Don is an advocate of trail development for all user groups in the U.P. and has been instrumental in the development of the Iron Ore Heritage Trail from Chocolay Township to Republic. He currently serves as a co-owner of Sands Speedway and the board president of the Michigan Upper Peninsula Snowmobile Association (MUPSA). He’s passionate, dedicated and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty when it comes to protecting, respecting and supporting outdoor recreation.Episode 47 – Kristin Ojaniemi – Host of Discovering on TV6, Kristin is a documentary film maker, producer, and a dedicated and passionate story teller. This is truly a story of “love the work you do and you will never work a day in your life.” We go behind the scenes in this one – how she became host of Discovering, how she finds the show topics and how she produces a weekly show as a “one woman band.”Check out these episodes and more on Spotify and YouTube
906AT/Pactimo Gear Store :: Open until 4/12
Good news, folks. The 906AT/Pactimo Gear Store is open. You have until April 12, 2026 at 11:59 pm to order your gear and get it in time for Dirt Season (May). The new store features gear for bikers and runners. We’ve worked with Pactimo to offer you variety. Like da aero stuff? The store has that. Like a more relaxed fit? The store has that, too. You can also choose from a variety of vests, jackets, base layers, and the Pactimo Flyte Suit. Make sure to consult the sizing guides and if you have a question reach out to us before you order. Pactimo has promised to take care of ya if you order the wrong size, but if we do our due diligence before placing an order we can avoid most of those problems. There’s a lot of stuff to choose from. Check it out.
Gear Store
Leading Adventure Summit :: Don’t miss it
The Leading Adventure Summit is a chance to take your training beyond what is offered in the mandatory online LMS training modules. We’ll cover some of the topics in more detail and we’ll offer On The Bike training – giving you the opportunity to master skills before riding with your Adventure Teams.Who is this for? Any volunteers, on the bike or off, who will interact with youth in any of the Adventure Team communities.Leadership Training is offered free to volunteers! The deadline to register is 4.19.26.When: April 25-26, 2026Where: Barrel + Beam and 906AT Basecamp, MarquetteSpeakers and Topics this year: Keynote: Leading By Example – Todd Poquette, 906AT Founder, Adventure IntelligenceAdventure Team: an approach to childhood mental and physical health – Dr. Cara Crawford-BartleReal-world scenarios: Kids at Adventure Team – Julie Cunningham, Educator and Area LeadConnecting with kids at Adventure Team – Cori Noordyk, Clinical Social WorkerLeading with Your Why: How to Approach Every Ride with Intention – Laurie DeYoung, Adventure Team Lansing AreaAdventure Team, Building Youth Resilience Through Outdoor Adventure and Play – Dr. Ryan BrangFirst Aid – Dr. Ryan Brang and Dr. Cara Crawford-BartleBack by popular demand: Sunday skills training at 906 Adventure Team Basecamp on Lakeshore Boulevard. Bring your bike and be ready to tackle obstacles, brush up on riding techniques and more!
Learn More
Register Now
MTRS :: Adventure Your Way
#1 6.02.2026 Lake LeVasseur Recreation Area#2 6.16.2026 RAMBA #1#3 6.30.2026 Little Presque Recreation Area#4 7.07.2026 RAMBA #2#5 7.21.2026 Harlow Lake Recreation Area#6 8.04.2026 Al QuaalThe Marquette Trail Running Series was established with one goal in mind – to get more people outside adventuring on foot.MTRS was founded by Andrew Rickauer. In 2025, he stepped aside after 15 years, and turned the series over to 906AT. We plan to finish what he started – creating an opportunity for more people to get outside adventuring on foot.Whether you’re an elite runner, weekend warrior, walker, hiker, MTRS welcomes you, your friends, your kids, and family.Who: Anyone who likes to get outside and do hard things with like-minded people.What: A short course (3 miles or less), long course (6 miles or less). You get two hours to do one lap, or more.When: Tuesdays at 6PM.Where: From the West End to Lake Levassuer and back!Why: You love running, trails, community gatherings, and want to learn new trails.Courses: Will vary depending on location. With the series moving around Marquette County this year and featuring a lot of new routes there’s bound to be something for everyone.FAQ’s:Is the trail marked? Yes, the trail will be marked.Are there aid stations? No. You are self-supported.Do I need to pre-register? No. Show up. Crush it!Do I have to do all of the races? No. You can do whatever you want.Is this timed? Is it a race? Are there prizes? No. No. No.Can I switch between the short and long course throughout the season? Yes.
Whether through a donation to youth resilience programming or a sponsorship of your local Adventure Team, your support is crucial to keep the momentum going. We’ve made incredible progress, but we’re already fully immersed in the planning and building for the next decade of growth. Through your financial partnership, you can be a key part of helping us build the foundation for the next 10 years of leadership, resilience and growth for thousands of youth.
MAKE A DONATION
Have a story you’d like to see featured in an upcoming edition of ‘Doing The Hard Things’? Contact Elizabeth Peterson at [email protected]
Supporting Partners
Trilogy Partners
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