SISU Ski Fest Awards Community Grants
4/30/2024

Sisu Ski Fest has awarded $5000 in grants to a variety of community projects that support their mission of promoting cross-country skiing and other winter silent sports through the provision of high quality recreational opportunities to area residents and tourists.

Grants are made possible through the generous donations of SISU race participants and supporters of SISU Ski Fest.  This year the following organizations received funding:

Ironwood Area Schools received a grant of $1000 to expand their youth cross country ski program to 3rd grade students (currently focusing on 2nd grade students) and to provide an opportunity for students to participate in the Barnebirkie Youth Cross Country Ski event in Hayward in February 2025.

The Sisu Endurance Race Team provides opportunities for local youth to develop skate and classic skiing skills and compete regionally.  Equipment is provided to the team members.  SET received a $1000 grant for purchase of roller skis which will allow the team members to train while skiing on roads in the fall and in low snow years.

Mercer Cross Country Ski Club and Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts (ICORE) received a $1000 grant to coordinate a student outreach program during the winter to invite students from Mercer and Hurley schools to enjoy cross country skiing and snowshoeing on the MECCA trails.  Ski instruction will be included. 

Wolverine Nordic Ski Club received a $1000 grant to enable them to clear the landing area of the historic Wolverine Ski Jump to provide a view for visitors and locals. The area will also provide a place to sled, build snow structures, and play in the snow.

Penokee Rangers Trails Corporation received a grant award of $500 towards their project to purchase an electric vehicle and update track assemblies to replace an aging UTV used for grooming.  The equipment upgrade will ensure that the Montreal and Uller Ski Trails will continue to be groomed for winter use, free and open to the public.

The Erwin Township Historical Society plans to expand outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all ages by improving the nature trail and construction of a children's playground and pickle ball court at the Heritage Park.  The Historical Society received a grant of $500 to be applied to their outdoor recreation fund.

Annual Meeting Yields New Board Members

The annual meeting was held April 4th at the Golden Dragon Chinese restaurant. We said good-bye to departing board members Kierstin Andresen, and Vic Calore, who has termed out after nine years. Two new board members were elected. Ashley Sorrels, who has served as Food Service Chief for two years, and Missy Rhenlund, who brings finance experience.

Officers for 2025 are: President Geneva Smiles-Garvan, VP Paul Hagemann, Secretary Ashley Sorrels, and Treasurer Missy Rhenlund.

SISU board and race director accepting the award for Organization of the Year, presented by the Ironwood Area Chamber of Commerce January 16th. Left to Right: Vic Calore, Jackie Powers, Geneva Smiles-Garvan, Kierstin Andresen, Paulette Niemi, Paul Hagemann, Kris Darrow, and Missi King.

Organization of the Year!