URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Shocker: Unpublicized website has restaurant inspection records for the Marquette County Health Department, and Western U.P. Health Department – but what about the rest of the U.P.? – Plus an update on our probe into the Hong Kong Buffet – we have the records

URGENT URGENT URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 4-2-18 – 6:15 a.m. ET – U.P.

U.P. Breaking News learns of secret website where Marquette County restaurant health inspection records can be found – yet it has never been publicized – Now Marquette media has no excuse not to report restaurant inspection records from Marquette County, thanks to a tip sent to U.P. Breaking News – there is also a function for the Western U.P. Health Department

 

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Marquette, MI) – Before you eat at your favorite U.P. restaurant today, make sure you know what was found by health departments – at least in some U.P. cities.

Early today, U.P. Breaking News was informed about a secret website that posts restaurant health inspections records in Marquette County – and the Western U.P. Health Department.

Plus Hong Kong Buffett in Marquette, MI was listed non-compliant in February 2018 – scroll down to read the info:

This infor was given to us thanks to:

Eric Menze

The info for some of the U.P. is now available through “Sword Solutions.”

http://www.swordsolutions.com/inspections/pgesearchresults.asp?County=39

Search Restaurant Inspection Reports

http://www.wupdhd.org/environmental-health/food-protection-program/search-restaurant-inspection-reports/

http://www.swordsolutions.com/inspections/pgeSearchResults.asp?County=37

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	02/06/2018	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Backflow Prevention (5-402.11)
Items	Backflow/backsiphonage prevention device(s)
Problems	An air break is provided but an air gap is required in the sewer line.
Corrections	Create an air gap in the sewage line which is twice the diameter of the waste line leaving the equipment, and not less than 1 inch.
Comments	During the inspection, the drain line of the pop machine was observed creating an air break with the sewer line. An air gap is required between the pop machine drain line and the sewer to prevent the potential backflow of sewage from contaminating the pop machine. This was discussed with the person in charge and the drain line raised and cut to create an air gap with the sewer. Violation corrected.
Priority	Manual and Mechanical Warewash (4-501.114)
Items	Chlorine solution concentration
Locations	wiping clothes
Problems	Below 25 ppm
Corrections	Provide correct concentration as stated above.
Comments	During the inspection, the sanitizing section of the 3 compartment sink was observed with a chlorine concentration below 25ppm. To adequately sanitize dishes the chlorine concentration must be between 50-100ppm. This was discussed with the person in charge and the solution concentration was increased to 50ppm. This is a repeat violation, please ensure that employees are testing the concentration of the sanitizing solution after every fill. Violation corrected at time of inspection.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	09/11/2017	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/16/2017	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Backflow Prevention Device, Wh (5-203.14)
Comments	The y at the mop sink faucet has been replaced and an atmospheric vacuum breaker installed as per the photo submitted and received 8-16-17. Violation Corrected.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/10/2017	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Backflow Prevention Device, Wh (5-203.14)
Items	Backflow prevention backflow/backsiphonage device vacuum breaker
Locations	Mop sink faucet
Problems	Not provided
Comments	The mop sink d\faucet has a y with shut off valves down stream of the built in atmospheric breaker. One line is directly connect to a chemical pump with a built in air gap, the other is unprotects. Install an AVB (ASSE 1011) ASAP. Provide a photo to this department showing the correct AVB installed within 10 days. jfarnworth@mqtco.org,
Priority	Manual and Mechanical Warewash (4-501.114)
Items	Chlorine solution concentration
Locations	wiping clothes
Problems	Below 25 ppm
Corrections	Provide correct concentration as stated above.
Comments	Wiping cloth buckets at the cooks line and in the prep area had less than 25 ppm chlorine residual when tested with test strips. Violation corrected by the PIC adding chlorine to 100 pm.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	02/02/2017	Compliance	In Compliance
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Equipment Food-Contact Surface (4-602.11)
Items	Food-contact surface(s) and utensil(s)
Problems	Not cleaned
Corrections	Clean as specified above.
Comments	The can opener was observed with a build up of food debris indicating a lack of routine cleaning. The can opener is a food contact surface which is required to be washed, rinsed, and sanitized at least every 4 hours to prevent pathogen growth. The violation was discussed with person in charge and the can opener cleaned at time of inspection for correction.
Priority Foundation	Where to Wash (2-301.15)
Items	Employee washed/rinsed hands
Problems	In three compartment sink
Corrections	Hands shall be washed in handsink(s) only.
Comments	A kitchen worker was observed rinsing off/washing his hands in the 3 compartment sink. Hand washing shall only be conducted in a hand washing sink to prevent cross contamination. The violation was discussed with person in charge and he instructed the employee on where to wash hands.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/30/2016	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	Upon our follow-up inspection, all foods in this refrigeration unit were at proper cold-holding temperatures of 41F or less. The owner advised that the unit has been serviced, specifically, the mechanical components have been cleaned and the service technician reported that no further maintenance or repair issues were found. The owner is using a probe thermometer to take internal food temperatures in the morning, after the lunch period, and after the dinner period. CORRECTED.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/17/2016	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Packaged and Unpackaged Food – (3-302.11)
Items	Raw animal product(s), Fruit(s) and vegetable(s)
Locations	Walk-in cooler 2 door prep cooler
Problems	Not separated from each other
Corrections	Keep seperate., Store raw animal foods below and away from foods needing little or no further prep.
Comments	A few foods were stored improperly, specifically: 1. In the walk-in cooler, three containers of raw chicken were stored above other raw meats and shellfish that have lower minimum cook temperatures. To prevent foodborne illness from foods that may drip or spill onto underlying foods, the foods that have a higher minimum cook temperature must be stored below foods that have lower minimum cook temperatures. This was corrected during the inspection by the owner relocating the chicken below and away from other foods and providing instruction to the employees. 2. In two of the cook’s line prep coolers, foods were stored with the containers nested such that the bottom of the containers were in direct contact with the underlying foods that were not covered. To prevent the undersides of the food containers from contaminating foods in the underlying containers, discontinue storing containers nested. If foods are stored stacked, the underlying foods must be covered. This was corrected during the inspection by the owner providing covers for the underlying foods and providing instruction to the employees.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Cold food item(s)
Locations	2 door prep cooler
Problems	Stored above 41 degrees F
Corrections	Store below 41 degrees F.
Comments	In the top rail compartment of the middle cooler at the cook’s line, potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) were at temperatures up to 45F (Leader 2-door prep cooler with 1-lid top rail). To prevent the rapid growth of disease-causing organisms, PHFs being held cold must kept at 41F or less. This must be corrected immediately. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days. In the interim, the temperature dial was set to a colder temperature and the foods were put on a 6 hour discard procedure per 3-501.19. Please use a temperature monitoring chart to record your progress. The temperatures to record will need to be actual internal food temperatures that are taken with a probe-style thermometer., In the top rail compartment of the middle cooler at the cook’s line, potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) were at temperatures up to 45F (Leader 2-door prep cooler with 1-lid top rail). To prevent the rapid growth of disease-causing organisms, PHFs being held cold must be kept at 41F or less. This must be corrected immediately. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days. In the interim, the temperature dial was set to a colder temperature and the foods were put on a 6 hour discard procedure per 3-501.19. Please use a temperature monitoring chart to record your progress. The temperatures to record will need to be actual internal food temperatures that are taken with a probe-style thermometer.,

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	02/09/2016	Compliance	In Compliance
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Equipment Food-Contact Surface (4-602.11)
Items	Food-contact surface(s) and utensil(s)
Problems	Not cleaned
Corrections	Clean as specified above.
Comments	The can opener in the kitchen was observed with a build up of food debris indicating a lack of cleaning. The can opener is a food contact surface. Food contact surfaces shall be cleaned (washed, rinsed, and sanitized) at least every 4 hours when in use to prevent pathogen growth. The dishwasher cleaned the can opener at time of inspection for correction.
Priority	Sanitizers, Criteria (7-204.11)
Items	Sanitizer(s)
Problems	Do not comply with law
Corrections	Remove and replace to be in compliance with law.
Comments	The wet wiping cloth bucket was observed above 200 ppm chlorine. The chlorine solution in the wet wiping bucket shall be maintained between 50-100ppm or in accordance with the manufacturers recommendation. An employee remixed the wet wiping bucket chlorine solution at time of inspection for correction.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/18/2015	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Manual and Mechanical Warewash (4-501.114)
Items	Chlorine solution concentration
Locations	Dish washing Area dishmachine
Problems	Below 25 ppm
Comments	The dish machine was not providing chlorine sanitizer when tested with the required test strips. The dish machine had just been started up and was not used to wash any dishes before the inspection. It was primed and run several times, but did not provide any sanitizing. The container was changed and the machine retested, at the end of the inspection at which time it was providing 50 ppm of chlorine residual sanitizer. Violation Corrected. Make sure the dish machine is tested before use every morning.
Priority	Packaged and Unpackaged Food – (3-302.11)
Items	Raw animal food(s)
Problems	Stored over/next to Ready-to-eat food(s)
Comments	In the walk in cooler, on the back shelves, 2 large pans of chicken pieces were thawing over top of ready to eat noodles and sauces. Violation corrected by the PIC talking with the prep cooks concerning the proper procedures for storing raw animal products.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Cold food item(s)
Problems	Stored above 41 degrees F
Corrections	Store below 41 degrees F.
Comments	Containers of raw marinated beef in the walk in cooler had temperatures of 55-60 degrees F indicating they were held out of temperature. In addition, flat trays of pre-cooked chicken balls had a temperature of 58 degrees F and were being held at room temperature in racks opposite the fryer. All potentially hazardous foods shall be maintained at 41 degrees F or less in order to prevent the growth of food borne illnesses. The PIC indicated the beef had been held at the counter in the morning for less than 2 hours and returned to the walk in cooler. The PIC corrected the violation by moving the tray of chicken to the walk in cooler since they had been out of temperature for only 2 hours and talking with the prep cooks about proper staging of prep food. They will use smaller containers when staging foods in order to maintain them at 41 degrees F or less.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	01/30/2015	Compliance	In Compliance
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority Foundation	Package Integrity (3-202.15)
Items	Food package(s)
Locations	Storage shelves
Problems	Dented, dented on seam or swollen
Corrections	Discard.
Comments	On the storage shelves in the kitchen, a can of peaches was observed with significant dents on the end seam. In order to prevent botulism all cans shall be examined and returned to provider if they have large or significant dents on the side or end seams. Violation corrected by the PIC removing them from the shelf and relocating them to the office to be returned to the supplier. The person in charge shall monitor food deliveries on a daily basis for damage and return as needed. This is a repeat violation.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Cold food item(s)
Problems	Stored above 41 degrees F
Corrections	Store below 41 degrees F.
Comments	On the grill line the preparation cooler closest to the dishwasher was observed at 48 degrees F. on the top and bottom of unit. Refrigeration units cold holding potentially hazardous foods shall maintain food temperatures at or below 41 degrees F. at all time to minimize the growth of pathogens. The unit has minimal PHFs it is mostly vegetables. The PIC indicated the PHFs were place in unit approximately 1.5 hours ago and will be used over the lunch period. The refrigeration unit temperature was turned down and the unit was observed at end of inspection and found to be cold holding at 38 degrees F. Violation corrected. The person in charge should monitor all refrigeration units daily to ensure proper cold holding.
Priority	Sanitizers, Criteria (7-204.11)
Items	Sanitizer(s)
Problems	Do not comply with law
Corrections	Remove and replace to be in compliance with law.
Comments	The wet wiping bucket located near the check out area was observed above 200 ppm chlorine. Wet wiping buckets containing chlorine shall be mixed in accordance with manufacturers recommendation. Chlorine sanitizing solutions over 200 ppm are toxic. The person in charge remixed the sanitizer at time of inspection for correction.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/20/2014	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority Foundation	Package Integrity (3-202.15)
Items	Food package(s)
Locations	Storage shelves
Problems	Dented, dented on seam or swollen
Corrections	Discard.
Comments	On the storage shelves in the kitchen, 2 cans of pineapple were dented on the end seam. In order to prevent botulism all cans shall be examined and returned to provider if they have large or significant dents on the side or end seams. Violation corrected by the PIC removing them from the shelf and relocating them to the office to be returned to the supplier.
Priority Foundation	Using a Handwashing Sink (5-205.11)
Items	Handwashing sink(s)
Locations	hand wash sink(s)
Problems	Not easily accessible Items stored In front of
Comments	Several 5 gallon buckets of sauce were being stored in front of the hand washing sink in the kitchen. The PIC said they do not use this sink – however it is the only handwashing sink easily accessible to the dish washing area and the back cook cline. In order to prevent the spread of disease and food borne illness, employees shall have access to hand washing sinks. Violation corrected by the PIC relocating the buckets under the cook line so the kitchen hand washing sink is easily accessible.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	05/01/2014	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	Upon our follow-up inspection the following morning, May 1, 2014, the condenser had been defrosted and adjusted by a service technician and was now holding foods and a test pan of water on an upper shelf at temperatures in the mid-30’s F. Be sure to more frequently use a calibrated probe thermometer to check the internal temperatures of foods being held under refrigeration, take corrective actions, and repair or replace your refrigeration equipment as needed to ensure that foods are always held at proper temperatures.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	02/18/2014	Compliance	In Compliance
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Manual and Mechanical Warewash (4-501.114)
Comments	A receipt was received by this department on February 10, 2014 indicating the dishwasher has been adjusted and is now providing chlorine sanitizer at 75 ppm. Violation corrected.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	02/07/2014	Compliance	In Compliance
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Before Use After Cleaning (4-702.11)
Items	Clean utensil(s) and food-contact surface(s)
Problems	Not sanitized
Corrections	Sanitize as required above.
Comments	Dishes in the kitchen 3 compartment sink were being washed, sanitized, and then rinsed. The proper manual dishwashing procedure is to wash in detergent, rinse in clear water, and then sanitize. When dish soap on an unrinsed dish is placed in a sanitizing solution the dish soap molecules will readily combine with the chlorine molecules reducing the sanitizer effectiveness. The violation was discussed with person in charge and procedure corrected at time of inspection.
Priority	Equipment Food-Contact Surface (4-602.11)
Items	Food-contact surface(s) and utensil(s)
Problems	Not cleaned
Corrections	Clean as specified above.
Comments	The can opener in the kitchen per the PIC is only being cleaned every few days. The can opener is a food contact surface and shall be cleaned every 4 hours when in use or after each use to prevent possible pathogen growth. The violation was discussed with PIC and he changed their cleaning procedure for the can opener at time of inspection for correction. The can opener will be cleaned after each use.
Priority	Manual and Mechanical Warewash (4-501.114)
Items	Chlorine solution concentration
Problems	Below 50 ppm
Corrections	Provide correct concentration as stated above.
Comments	The mechanical dishwasher is not providing any sanitizer in the sanitizing cycle. Chlorine sanitizer is required to be maintained between 50-100ppm to destroy potential pathogens. The PIC contacted his service provider Ecolab at time of inspection. The service provider is scheduled to work on the machine later today. Until the dishwasher is operating properly all dishes shall be manually sanitized. To prevent a follow up inspection a copy of the service providers receipt shall be submitted to this department within 10 days. The receipt can be emailed to jcox@mqtco.org, faxed to 906-475-6500, or mailed to the address found on top of this report. If a receipt is not received within 10 days a follow up inspection will be conducted.,

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/23/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	Upon our follow-up inspection on August 23, 2013: Items 1 and 2 remain corrected as described above. Item 3 and 4 are now corrected in full, specifically, the northerly prep cooler is now holding foods at 41F or in less both the top and inner compartments, and the oyster sauce and garlic in oil are being stored in the inner compartment. Be sure to continue frequently using a food probe thermometer to monitor the temperatures of foods stored in the prep coolers.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/22/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	Upon our follow-up inspection on August 22, 2013: Items 1 and 2 above have been corrected in full, specifically: At the self-service cold and hot holding buffet units, PHFs were still being correctly marked with discards time, and the facility now has the required written procedures per section 3-501.19, and has posted them at the server kitchen and entrance to the main kitchen. Item 3 and 4 above continues at the north prep cooler, but the unit was being serviced again during the inspection, so a complete evaluation could not be performed at this time. Probed food temperatures were in the 50’sF in both the top and inner compartments. No PHFs were stored in the top compartment, however, the interior compartment had oyster sauce and garlic in oil in the 50’sF. These two foods are PHFs that should have been kept in one of the other prep coolers in the interim, as identified during the last follow-up inspection. These foods were relocated to the adjacent prep cooler during the inspection. The service technician indicated that refrigerant was added, the coils were cleaned, the air temperature was already down to 41F, and he felt the unit would now function properly. A follow-up inspection will be performed later today or tomorrow to determine the outcome of the servicing of the unit. ,

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/12/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	Upon our follow-up inspection on August 12, 2013: Items 1 and 2 above: At the self-service cold and hot holding buffet units, PHFs were being correctly marked with discard time as described above, but the facility does not have the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. Further consultation and another MDARD fact sheet was provided to explain the specific minimum requirements on the contents of an approved written procedure. Be sure to develop the written procedures and have them available for the follow-up inspection. Item 3 above: In the northerly (right) Leader cook’s line prep cooler, foods in the top rail compartment were at 53F, but no PHFs were stored there. The interior compartment thermometer read in the 50’sF, but probed food temperatures varied widely due to foods stored there that had been held out at the cook’s line, such as soy sauce at 90F, and such as oyster sauce at 77F that had not been pre-chilled before recently opening the can. Placing warm foods in this unit is complicating correction of the cold holding temperatures and is making it difficult to determine progress. Cooked noodles were 41F, but had not been stored there very long. During the inspection, the hot soy sauce was removed, the noodles were relocated to the south prep cooler, and the oyster sauce was relocated to the walk-in cooler to be pre-chilled after which it will be kept in the south prep cooler. Item 4 above: Chopped garlic in oil is still being kept in a refrigeration unit. The oyster sauce was being kept in the north prep cooler, but is not being pre-chilled before being placed in this prep cooler that is not capable of cooling this food, resulting in the food being 77F as discussed under Item 3 above. During the inspection, the oyster sauce was relocated to the walk-in cooler to be quickly chilled after which it will be kept in the south prep cooler. This must be corrected immediately by developing written procedures per section 3-501.19 for Items 1 and 2, by servicing the cook’s line cooler in Item 3, and by ensuring that the oyster sauce in Item 4 is being kept at 41F or less and is being pre-chilled before being placed in one of the cook’s line prep coolers. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days after the date of this routine inspection., Upon our follow-up inspection on August 12, 2013: Items 1 and 2 above: At the self-service cold and hot holding buffet units, PHFs were being correctly marked with discard time as described above, but the facility does not have the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. Further consultation and another MDARD fact sheet was provided to explain the specific minimum requirements on the contents of an approved written procedure. Be sure to develop the written procedures and have them available for the follow-up inspection. Item 3 above: In the northerly (right) Leader cook’s line prep cooler, foods in the top rail compartment were at 53F, but no PHFs were stored there. The interior compartment thermometer read in the 50’sF, but probed food temperatures varied widely due to foods stored there that had been held out at the cook’s line, such as soy sauce at 90F, and such as oyster sauce at 77F that had not been pre-chilled before recently opening the can. Placing warm foods in this unit is complicating correction of the cold holding temperatures and is making it difficult to determine progress. Cooked noodles were 41F, but had not been stored there very long. During the inspection, the hot soy sauce was removed, the noodles were relocated to the south prep cooler, and the oyster sauce was relocated to the walk-in cooler to be pre-chilled after which it will be kept in the south prep cooler. Item 4 above: Chopped garlic in oil is still being kept in a refrigeration unit. The oyster sauce was being kept in the north prep cooler, but is not being pre-chilled before being placed in this prep cooler that is not capable of cooling this food, resulting in the food being 77F as discussed under Item 3 above. During the inspection, the oyster sauce was relocated to the walk-in cooler to be quickly chilled after which it will be kept in the south prep cooler. This must be corrected immediately by developing written procedures per section 3-501.19 for Items 1 and 2, by servicing the cook’s line cooler in Item 3, and by ensuring that the oyster sauce in Item 4 is being kept at 41F or less and is being pre-chilled before being placed in one of the cook’s line prep coolers. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days after the date of this routine inspection. , ,

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	08/01/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes	The facility is required to have a certified food manager that has been certified under a program that is recognized by the State of Michigan. The facility employs Shiqi Ni, who has been certified as satisfactorily completing a Food Managers Certification Program provided by the City of Houston, Texas. At the time of the inspection, it could not be determined if this is a recognized certification program. (Shiqi Ni, Certification Number 163528, Expires 9/23/2015)

Inspection Results
Priority	Backflow Prevention (5-402.11)
Items	Backflow/backsiphonage prevention device(s) Air gap
Problems	An air break is provided but an air gap is required in the sewer line.
Corrections	Create an air gap in the sewage line which is twice the diameter of the waste line leaving the equipment, and not less than 1 inch.
Comments	At the server kitchen, the waste lines for the following equipment had air breaks where full unobstructed air gaps are required: 1. One of two lines from the ice machine. This was corrected during the inspection by raising and securing the waste line to create an air gap above the floor drain. 2. Two lines from the combined pop/ice dispensing machine. This was corrected during the inspection by shortening the waste lines to create an air gap above the sewer receptacle. Be sure to regularly inspect the waste lines to ensure that the air gaps are maintained where required.
Priority	Packaged and Unpackaged Food – (3-302.11)
Items	Raw animal food(s)
Problems	Stored over/next to Ready-to-eat food(s)
Corrections	Store raw animal foods below and away from foods needing little or no further prep.
Comments	Raw chicken, pork, and shrimp were stored above bulk containers of sauces and produce. This was corrected during the inspection by relocating the raw chicken to a bottom shelf, with the raw pork and shrimp on a higher shelf, all of which were below and/or away from the sauces and produce. Be sure to always store raw poultry, seafood and meats below and away from ready-to-eat foods, and such that they are stored in descending order with the foods having the lowest minimum cook temperatures on top and the highest minimum cook temperatures on the bottom. Explained another way, such that no raw food product is stored above a food that has a lower minimum cook temperature. For example, raw chicken has the highest required minimum cook temperature of 165F, and therefore must always be stored below all other foods.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Hot food item(s), Cold food item(s)
Locations	cooler(s) hot holding unit
Problems	Stored below 135 degrees F, Stored above 41 degrees F
Corrections	Store above 135 degrees F., Store below 41 degrees F.
Comments	Potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) were being held at improper temperatures as follows: 1. At the self-service cold holding buffet unit, PHFs were 50F to 62F, such as sushi, puddings, tapioca, cantaloupe, honeydew, tomato salad, and hard boiled eggs. During the inspection, these foods were placed under time control in lieu of temperature control by making the foods with discard times that are 6 hours or less after being placed there, however, the facility must still develop the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. 2. At the self-service hot holding buffet unit, some foods were at temperatures ranging from 93F to 135, such as fried chicken nuggets, rangoons, egg food young, and fried dumplings. During the inspection, these foods were placed under time control in lieu of temperature control by making the foods with discard times that are 4 hours or less after being placed there, however, the facility must still develop the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. 3. In the northerly (right) Leader cook’s line prep cooler, foods in the top rail compartment were at temperatures ranging from 50F to 62F. The foods in the interior compartment appeared to be at 41F or less. During the inspection, in the interim, the PHFs in the top rail compartment were relocated to the top rail compartment of the adjacent cooler that was 41F. 4. At the cook’s line roll cart, 3 containers of oyster sauce and a container of chopped garlic in oil was held at room temperatures. These foods are PHFs that must be held at 41F or less, or at 135F or above. This was corrected during the inspection by relocating the oyster sauces to a refrigeration unit and discarding the garlic/oil. Be sure that all applicable employees are advised of this change in practice. This must be corrected immediately by developing written procedures per section 3-501.19 for Items 1 and 2, by servicing the cook’s line cooler in Item 3, and by ensuring that the oyster sauce and garlic/oil is kept refrigerated. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days after the date of this routine inspection., Potentially hazardous foods (PHFs) were being held at improper temperatures as follows: 1. At the self-service cold holding buffet unit, PHFs were 50F to 62F, such as sushi, puddings, tapioca, cantaloupe, honeydew, tomato salad, and hard boiled eggs. During the inspection, these foods were placed under time control in lieu of temperature control by making the foods with discard times that are 6 hours or less after being placed there, however, the facility must still develop the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. 2. At the self-service hot holding buffet unit, some foods were at temperatures ranging from 93F to 135, such as fried chicken nuggets, rangoons, egg food young, and fried dumplings. During the inspection, these foods were placed under time control in lieu of temperature control by making the foods with discard times that are 4 hours or less after being placed there, however, the facility must still develop the required written procedures per section 3-501.19. 3. In the northerly (right) Leader cook’s line prep cooler, foods in the top rail compartment were at temperatures ranging from 50F to 62F. The foods in the interior compartment appeared to be at 41F or less. During the inspection, in the interim, the PHFs in the top rail compartment were relocated to the top rail compartment of the adjacent cooler that was 41F. 4. At the cook’s line roll cart, 3 containers of oyster sauce and a container of chopped garlic in oil was held at room temperatures. These foods are PHFs that must be held at 41F or less, or at 135F or above. This was corrected during the inspection by relocating the oyster sauces to a refrigeration unit and discarding the garlic/oil. Be sure that all applicable employees are advised of this change in practice. This must be corrected immediately by developing written procedures per section 3-501.19 for Items 1 and 2, by servicing the cook’s line cooler in Item 3, and by ensuring that the oyster sauce and garlic/oil is kept refrigerated. A follow-up inspection will be performed in approximately 10 calendar days after the date of this routine inspection. , , , ,
Priority Foundation	Ready-to-Eat, Potentially Haza (3-501.17)
Items	In house prepared ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food(s), Commercially processed ready to eat potentially hazardous food(s)
Locations	cooler(s)
Problems	Without date of consumption marking, Without date of consumption marking
Corrections	Provide proper date marks as stated above., Provide proper date marks as stated above.
Comments	In the server station display coolers, several trays of tapioca pudding, and opened cartons of whole milk, 2% milk, and chocolate milk were not labeled with “use by” dates. This was corrected during the inspection by adding the appropriate “use by” dates. Be sure to daily check the contents of all refrigeration units, add “use by” dates when required, and dispose of all foods that have exceeded their “use by” dates.
Core	In-Use Utensils, Between-Use S (3-304.12)
Items	Dispensing utensil(s)
Locations	prep area
Problems	Improperly stored In standing water
Corrections	Store as stated above.
Comments	In the rear kitchen prep area, the in-use rice scoop was stored in standing water. Store the rice scoop using one of the approved methods described above in order to minimize the growth of bacteria on in-use utensils. This was corrected during the inspection by relocating the spoon to a clean, dry location. Be sure that all applicable staff are aware of this change in practice.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	HONG KONG BUFFET	License	075373
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	07/24/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes	On July 17, 2013, a complaint was received alleging that the men’s restroom had an unpleasant odor and the floors were wet and greasy. The new manager indicated that at that time there was a problem with a urinal overflowing that has since been corrected, and a sign has been posted requesting users to refrain from unnecessary use of the flush valve. The floor was observed to be dry and had recently been given a routine cleaning. The conditions of the floors are considered to be in substantial compliance due to the manager’s action that was previously undertaken without our involvement. However, the floors and lower portion of the walls have some stubborn soil and stains in the tile and grout, for which we recommend professional cleaning and treatment with the appropriate chemical products and mechanical floor cleaning equipment, followed by sealing the surfaces to provide more resistance against future soil accumulation and staining.

Inspection Results

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	05/20/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes	All ready to eat potentially hazardous food in the wait station was labeled with the correct 7 day discard labels during the follow up inspection.

Inspection Results
Priority	Preventing Contamination from (3-301.11)
Comments	During the follow-up inspection no-one was preparing ready to eat food, however, the PIC said he has been reminding all employees daily to wear gloves while handling ready to eat foods. Violation corrected.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	05/10/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes	Cooling charts are being used to monitor cooling of potentially hazardous foods. However, the inspection checklist provided in previous inspections is being used sporadically, resulting in several violations during this recent inspection that could have been prevented with “active managerial control” through use of the inspection checklist. Follow up in 10 days to monitor the use of the check lists.

Inspection Results
Priority Foundation	Hand Drying Provision (6-301.12)
Items	Sanitary hand drying provisions
Locations	hand wash sink(s)
Problems	Not provided
Corrections	Provide.
Comments	The hand washing sink in the prep area and the hand washing sink in the employee bathroom, did not have paper towels for hand drying. Violation corrected by the cook putting in new rolls of paper towels.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Cold food item(s)
Locations	2-door cooler(s) grill line
Problems	Stored above 41 degrees F
Comments	Sushi rice was at 62 degrees on the counter. In order to prevent the growth of pathogens, potentially hazardous foods shall be maintained at 41 degrees F or 135 degrees F. The PIC explained the prep cook forgot to discard the rice after making sushi in the morning. The cook corrected the violation by discarding the rice.
Priority	Preventing Contamination from (3-301.11)
Items	Ready-to-eat food(s)
Locations	Prep area
Problems	Handled with bare hands
Comments	During the inspection, a waitress was observed using bare hands to cut up cantaloupe and melon for the fruit salad. In order to prevent the transfer of disease and pathogens, all ready to eat foods shall only be handled with gloves, utensils etc to prevent bare hand contact. The PIC talked with the waitress and she washed her hands and put on disposable gloves to handle the melon. Follow up in 10 days.,
Priority Foundation	Ready-to-Eat, Potentially Haza (3-501.17)
Items	In house prepared ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food(s)
Problems	Without date of consumption marking
Corrections	Provide proper date marks as stated above.
Comments	Items in the wait station did not have any date labeling, specifically pasta salad and sliced tomatoes salad with sliced cucumbers and onions. In order to prevent the growth of pathogens, all potentially hazardous, ready to eat foods shall be labeled with a 7 day use by date. The PIC labeled the items with the proper date, correcting the violation.
Priority Foundation	Using a Handwashing Sink (5-205.11)
Items	Handwashing sink(s)
Locations	handsink
Problems	Not easily accessible Items stored In
Corrections	Remove items from handsink. Do not store items at handsink.
Comments	The hand washing sink located opposite the grill/wok line had clean metal pans stored on top of the sink, restricting the ability to wash hands at this sink. Violation corrected by the cook removing the pans.
Core	Posting and display of license (MFL289.4119)
Comments	The current 2013/2014 Michigan Food License was not displayed for customers to see. Please hang it in an area easily viewed by the public.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	05/03/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Compliance with Food Law (3-201.11)
Items	Food source(s)
Locations	Prep area
Problems	Do not comply with law
Comments	Following up on a complaint, this establishment was found to have obtained meat from an unapproved source. This is in direct violation of the 2009 Food Code requiring all meat products within the facility to be obtained from a USDA inspected and licensed facility. Complaint Founded.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	03/22/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Comments	The prep cooler has been fixed and is maintaining potentially hazardous foods at temperatures less than 41 degrees F. Violation Corrected.
Priority	Preventing Contamination from (3-301.11)
Comments	During the inspection, cooks were observed using utensils while handling ready-to-eat foods. Violation Corrected.
Priority	Sanitizers, Criteria (7-204.11)
Comments	The dish machine has been calibrated and is now delivering 50-100 ppm of bleach sanitizer. Violation Corrected.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	03/12/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes	The PIC is using an inspection checklist at the beginning of the day for the kitchen, wait staff area and the buffet. However, in order to maintain “active managerial control” it is important these areas get checked every 4 hours. Please fill out these sheets every 4 hours and maintain them at the faciltiy to be reviewed during the next inspection. In addition, continue to monitor the cooling temperatures of sushi rice, yellow rice, pork , chicken and noodles, and the sanitizing concentrations of the dish machine and the 3 comp sink. These sheets shall be reviewed during the next 2 month inspection. Follow up in 10 days – cold holding, dish machine, bare hand contact, inspection checklists. Dan Dan is required to become a Certified Food Manager. Please sign up for the next CFM course or make alternative arrangements in order to become ANSI certified ASAP.

Inspection Results
Priority Foundation	Hand Drying Provision (6-301.12)
Items	Sanitary hand drying provisions disposable, paper towels
Locations	hand wash sink(s)
Problems	Not provided
Comments	The hand washing sink opposite the grill was out of paper towels for hand drying. Violation Corrected by the cook installing a roll of paper towels.
Priority	Potentially Hazardous Food (Ti (3-501.16)
Items	Cold food item(s)
Locations	2-door cooler(s) grill line
Problems	Stored above 41 degrees F
Comments	The prep cooler opposite the grill was not maintaining potentially hazardous ready to eat foods at 41 degrees F or less, specifically; diced pork in the top rail (43-45 degrees F) and noodles in the bottom (45-50 degrees F). In order to prevent the growth of pathogens and disease, all RTE PHF shall be maintained at 41 degrees F or less. Follow up in 10 days.,
Priority	Preventing Contamination from (3-301.11)
Items	Ready-to-eat food(s)
Locations	Prep area
Problems	Handled with bare hands
Comments	During the inspection, a line cook was observed using bare hands to cut up cooked chicken. This chicken was being topped with a peanut sauce and put out on the buffet line with no further cooking. In order to prevent the transfer of disease and pathogens, all ready to eat foods shall not be touched with bare hands. The PIC spoke with the cook and the food was discarded, and the cook will wear gloves while handling ready-to-eat foods. Follow up in 10 days.,
Priority	Sanitizers, Criteria (7-204.11)
Items	Sanitizer(s)
Locations	dish machine(s)
Problems	Do not comply with law
Comments	The dish machine has a residual sanitizing bleach concentration of greater than 200 ppm. In order to prevent accidental poisoning, the bleach sanitizing cycle shall not be above 200ppm. Wash rinse and sanitize all dishes manually until the machine can be properly calibrated to deliver a bleach concentration of 25-200 ppm. Follow up in 10 days.,
Priority	Separation (7-201.11)
Items	Poisonous/toxic material(s)
Locations	Storage shelves
Problems	Stored over/with Equipment/utensils
Corrections	Provide adequate separation to prevent contamination.
Comments	A box of RAID spray canisters, used to kill outdoor pests were being stored on shelving used for storing food contact utensils and single-use utensils. In order to prevent accidental poisoning, all poisons shall be stored away from food and food contact utensils. Violation Corrected by the PIC discarding the box.
Core	Wiping Cloths, Use Limitation (3-304.14)
Items	Wiping cloth(s) wet
Problems	Not in a sanitizing solution.
Corrections	Keep wiping cloths in sanitizer solution between uses.
Comments	Wiping clothes used in the kitchen were not being stored in the wiping cloth bucket between uses. Violation corrected by placing all the wet clothes into a wiping cloth bucket.

 

Location Information Show Partial Inspections View Map
Name	YANGS HONG KONG BUFFET	License	040785
Address	3060 US 41 WEST, MARQUETTE, MI 49855 Marquette County
Date	01/31/2013	Compliance	Non Compliant
Notes

Inspection Results
Priority	Cooling (3-501.14)
Comments	The pork in the walk-in cooler was properly cooled in shallow pans and the time and temperature were monitored and charted so this potentially hazardous ready-to-eat product was cooled from 135-70 degrees F within 2 hours and from 70-41 degrees F in less than 4 hours. Violation Corrected. The PIC will continue to monitor and chart sushi rice, pork, chicken and yellow rice and maintain these charts for the next inspection.

Pelkie Woman: She served federal time for bath salts distribution in the Marquette area – and now is suspected of dealing meth; arrested with her man in St. Ignace, MI

Update: 3-25-18 5 p.m. ET

U.P. Breaking News has identified the second suspect arrested in Pelkie meth probe:

Ronald Francis Thompson lived with Kristin Bergeron and lived with her in Puuri Rd in Pelkie. Both are suspects in a meth investigation:

Ronald Francis Thompson

Ronald Francis Thompson

 

One Baraga County resident remains jailed in the eastern Upper Peninsula, whereabouts of other suspect unclear – as police investigate the couple for allegedly distributing meth – the female half already served time for being part of bath salts ring

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Baraga County, MI) – At least one member of a Baraga County couple jailed in the eastern U.P. for suspected meth distribution served time for dealing a powerfully addictive drug with an extreme amphetamine-like buzz called bath salts – one of several drug epidemics that have swept the U.P. since the 90s.

Kristin Ellen Bergeron

34-year-old Kristin Ellen Bergeron of Pelkie, MI was one of two people arrested on Wed., March 14, 2018 in Mackinac County by troopers from the Michigan State Police St. Ignace Post.

Bergeron and her “civil union” partner – also 34 years old – are expected to face meth distribution-related  charges in Baraga County. Detectives also confiscated a weapon.

Federal prosecutors got a guilty plea from Bergeron in 2014  for being involved in a bath salts ring. She was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison – no parole. (scroll down to read press release).

Federal agents worked hard with U.P. drug teams to wipe out the bath salts epidemic that swept the U.P. in the late 2010. Another big epidemic that swept northern Michigan was CAT – or methcathinone. The drugs all provided a speed like buzz – with ghastly side-effects.

Why meth is worst so far: God Bless our drug teams but they do not have the funding and manpower to make a dent in the problem including funds for massive operation  going after those who ship ephedrine to the U.P. – or drive it here

All these highly-addictive drugs happened to otherwise good people in the Upper Peninsula, where family values still have a credible meaning.

The drugs simply changed them – consuming the lives of the addicts – though rehab helps. That’s another problem

If there were more treatment facilities in the U.P. lots more people could become healthy instead of choosing the abyss. Remember if you love the person, do not be judgmental- as addicts already know what they have done.
The meth epidemic and the drop in heroin prices have led to the worst of the epidemics so far – due to the vast number of users (and poverty) – versus relatively small police drug teams.

The drug teams could use twice the funding and manpower to really make a bigger effect – more if you want to end it for all practical purposes.
However our readers say that China is pumping ephedrine into the U.P. (a critical component of meth) – and so are dealers from bigger Midwestern cities.

With the large epidemic under way in U.P. history – its important to wipe out meth by turning in dealers and providing treatment to others (yes they are victims).

“Bath Salts”

Alpha-pyrrolidinopentiphenone, commonly known as alpha-PVP, and pentylone.

The term “bath salts” refers to a group of substances containing synthetic cathinones that all have similar chemical properties. These substances have a powerful amphetamine-like effect on the central nervous system when consumed. Synthetic cathinones are chemically similar to the natural drug cathinone, a drug that comes from khat plants in east Africa.

Kristin Ellen Bergeron

Kristin Ellen Bergeron

In Mackinac County, the pair are charged with operating under the influence of drugs and possession of methamphetamine.

During the raid, UPSET “seized several more grams of methamphetamine, as well as scales, packaging for distribution, and a firearm.”

Press release by federal prosecutors on May 14, 2014:

MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN – U.S. District Judge R. Allan Edgar sentenced three people for their involvement in distributing two powerful “bath salts” – alpha-pyrrolidinopentiphenone, which is commonly known as alpha-PVP, and pentylone – for human consumption in the Upper Peninsula.

Scott Bernard Will, age 56, of Mass City, Michigan, received a sentence of 137 months (11 ½ years) in federal prison. Last December, a federal jury in Marquette found Will guilty of distributing and conspiring to distribute alpha-PVP and pentylone in Baraga and Houghton Counties. In imposing the sentence, Judge Edgar commented on Will’s extensive criminal history, noting that Will was a “walking crime wave.”

Also sentenced were Derrick John Guzek, age 34, also of Mass City, and Kristen Ellen Bergeron, age 31, of Pelkie, Michigan. Guzek received a sentence of 16 months in prison while Bergeron was sentenced to 18 months.

The term “bath salts” refers to a group of substances containing synthetic cathinones that all have similar chemical properties. These substances have a powerful amphetamine-like effect on the central nervous system when consumed. Synthetic cathinones are chemically similar to the natural drug cathinone, a drug that comes from khat plants in east Africa.

The evidence presented at trial showed that Will began selling bath salts in the Marquette area in 2011. He was jailed for his activities from June 2011 until November 2012. But, upon release from jail, he went back to selling the substances. Will’s sales of alpha-PVP and pentylone in Baraga and Houghton Counties in early 2013 drew the attention of the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team and the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs.

An undercover officer made a number of purchases of these substances from Mr. Will and his co-conspirators in March and April 2013. He and his co-conspirators were arrested in April 2013. Guzek and Bergeron pled guilty and testified for the government. Will went to trial in Marquette on December 9, 2013.

As part of its case, the government presented testimony from users who said that the bath salts sold to them by Will were extremely powerful and addictive. They reported staying up for days after injecting the substances, and experiencing psychosis, paranoia and suicidal thoughts. Judge Edgar noted that the users were “physically wrecked by these drugs.”

The evidence at trial showed Will specifically targeted people with drug problems by offering the substances for free. Once the user was hooked, Will charged up to $200 per gram.

This case was investigated by the Michigan State Police as part of the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maarten Vermaat and Paul D. Lochner prosecuted the case.

https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/pr/2014_0515_SWill_etal.html

On Thursday, March 15, 2018 – agents from the Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement team (UPSET) raided the couple’s home near Pelkie, MI. UPSET executed a search warrant at the couple’s residence on Puuri Road in Baraga County.

Bergeron’s 34-year-old male partner was jailed in Mackinac County – but is no longer listed as an inmate.

Baraga County is among the growing number of  U.P. counties who refuse to publicly release info on booked suspects – so it is unclear if he is out on bond – or has been transferred.

If you know the other suspect’s name (partner of Bergeron) please contact U.P. Breaking News.

Bergeron is a native of Dearborn Heights, according to her Facebook page.

https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/pr/2014_0515_SWill_etal.html

https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/granule/USCOURTS-miwd-2_13-cr-00009/USCOURTS-miwd-2_13-cr-00009-10

UPSET Commander Lt. Timothy “Tim” L. Sholander and the entire UPET team hope you will turn in meth dealers – as it is a scrounge that has ruined thousands of U.P. families – along with the other easy-to-get highly addictive drugs like heroin, fentanyl and cocaine.

Do you have information about illegal drugs in your community?
Contact UPSET at 906-228-1002 or leave an anonymous tip on the UPSET website at http://www.upsetdrugs.com

U.P. Breaking News Editorial/Expose: The shame of the Ironwood Department of Public Safety: Honest but horrible mistake is now a cover-up – To regain credibility Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker has to go

URGENT URGENT U.P. Breaking News Editorial and Expose – 3-12-18 – 11:30 a.m. ET – 10:30 a.m. CT

The Big Ironwood Cover-up and Lies

The shame of Ironwood, MI: Three men did not have to die

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-243

Why haven’t Ironwood public safety officials been straight with the public?

Everyone already knows the white elephant in the room.

The deaths of the three men in that horrible fire – could have been prevented – and should have been prevented.

How do we prove that?

First scroll down to end and see why this reporter has the moral authority and experience to make these claims including firefighter academy graduate and been at over 1,000 structure fires

Thick black smoke was reported in the initial fire is identical to thick black smoke in the second fire – yet they blamed the first fire on cooking and left the scene without a thorough investigation.

Ironwood Public Safety Director is trying to blame both fires on victim Levi Dean Watkins – when it was the department’s fault! PERIOD!

In fact, sounds like they are going to try to pin it on one of the dead mean – a man whom they essentially disparaged in the audio tapes.

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/02/21/many-hurt-in-ironwood-mi-apartment-building-fire

Anyone with even small fire training, knows that “thick black smoke” almost has to be petroleum-based – mixed with horrible toxins that spread across the city.

Remember there was an oil company attached in Ironwood – one of the many businesses destroyed. We find that very interesting.

Its just like the January 2018 fatal fire caused by an old oil burner that killed Leo Gruber and injured others in almost identical building in Calumet.

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/28/calumetfatalfire/

What was an innocent but tragic error by those at the first fire, has been turned into a cover-up with the chief refusing to talk about the first fire.

A message to Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker:

Don’t you dare try to blame this on the victims when it was your department’s fault.

It’s convenient to blame it on these low-income residents who are dead because the department did not properly investigate the first fire – PERIOD

Honest officers need to come forward for their own moral sanity because of these three dead men.

In fact, the Ironwood cops did not even spell one of the victims name’s correctly in a release. Verrette was misspelled Verrete, they left out one of the letters. What disrespect. Again, the shame.

June 2018 memorial service planned for three victims – and Director Klecker better not have the audacity to show his face:

57-year-old Mark Arnold Verrette
51-year-old Patrick James Somerville
27-year-old Levi Dean Watkins

Yes it was fine for Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker to praise the mutual aid – very slick, clever cover-up talk and a way to avoid what really happened. The shame.

Even heard the chief (they call him Director) actually misled the city council by not mentioning the first fire during his briefings on the blaze.

For that alone and for misleading the people – he should resign or be fired. This is not acceptable in the modern era.

I have always had a good relationship with police – but in past 20 years in U.P. police officials actually think they are above everyone else, use information as power and blatantly lie to the public – outright lies and by omission.

But it must be in your western U .P. water because the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Department is also losing credibility:
Because even the Gogebic County Sheriff and Tribal Police did not tell the public about what really happened at Thousand Island Lake – did not mention barge or crane or that victim was snowing for the barge.
Sheriff did not say if they told regulatory officials or even what the barge/crane was doing in the lake.
Now we hear the sheriff has hired a former disgraced Wisconsin cop who was arrested after an inmate death – these are the types of hires that old-fashioned crooked law enforcement bosses like because they can control the person.

We also heard that some of the public safety director’s minions are trying to say our audio tape (from broadcastify) of the fires is not real. One of many blatant lie folks.
I predict the final report on the triple fatal fire – if it is even made public – will say the cause is not known due to heavy damage. That’s why the audio tapes of police/fire communications of the first and second fires (an hour apart) actually speak for the victims.
Watch – Ironwood officials will make it difficult for the victim’s families to sue because they will pretend they know nothing – or they will blame it on a tenant – one of the dead men.

Ironwood please bring professionalism back to your questionable police/fire force.

There has to be at least one good-willed and truly professional officer/firefighter. It is your duty to stand up and tell the truth. If it were me, I would make secret recordings to gather evidence before coming out publicly.

Personally, we can not figure out why the chief still has his job – because all you have to do is listen to the tapes and it is 1,000 percent obvious that the first fire is connected to the second fire. Period.

I mean he either the chief (director) thinks he is a God – or doesn’t believe in America’s right to know.
We have had a lot of experience with good honest police and corrupt cops and sheriffs.

Crooked cops use that hidden info as leverage over people. In fact, the press releases are very vague with little substance. Crooked cops do not tell the public about much of what happens.

Wake up Mr. Director – you are not as privileged as you think you are.

Those who know what happened – like those who were quickly on the scene that morning – have a moral responsibility to three dead men to force the truth to be told.

I believe in a higher power, and I would not want to have that terrible lie and burden on my jacket on my final day – when I meet my Creator.

Put you cards on the table – be honest – the public should demand a hearing.
The lies, omissions and false info is not the making of a professional department. And I am sure there are some professionals on the Ironwood force who know this – but are scared to talk.
Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker – it is time to go sir. You and your department are suffering a severe public lack of credibility – and talking behind your back fearing retaliation.

——-

U.P. Breaking News is looking for photos of the other two fire victims, please send them to us:

——-

Patrick James Somerville
July 21, 1966 – February 21, 2018Patrick James Somerville, 51, of Ironwood, died Wednesday, February 21, 2018 in Ironwood.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation from 9-11 a.m., at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood,
A full obituary will be published at a later date.
McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, is assisting the family.
http://www.mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com/obituary/patrick-somerville

Levi Dean Watkins on left

Levi Dean Watkins on right

Levi Dean Watkins, right, with friends

Levi Dean Watkins, middle, with two friends

Levi Dean Watkins

Ironwood Public Safety Director is trying to blame both fires on victim Levi Dean Watkins – when it was the department’s fault! PERIOD!

March 8, 2018

IRONWOOD, Mich. – My sweet Levi Watkins, born Feb. 3, 1991, passed away in the recent fire on Feb. 21, 2018.
Levi was employed at several local places, including Burger King, Iron Nugget and, most recently, at Brewster’s Bar and Grill.
Levi loved food and people, family and friends, which included so many. He touched so many lives with his crazy self, always laughing and goofing around, always singing as he went. My heart will never recover.
To all of you, for your love and sympathy, I thank you.
Levi is survived by the loves of his life, Lexee Hembree, Evelyn Hembree and his brother, Daniel Watkins; his daughter, Ahlia Whitburn (Watkins), whom he loved with every breath he took; his grandmother, Shirley S. Holmes, and grandfather, C. Raymond Holmes, whom he adored and respected; his friend and surrogate father, David S. Elsner, and mother, Rhoda Holmes, whose life will never have the same meaning.
We loved and adored you Levi Dean, you lived your life just like the saying on your wall: “Follow your heart, it is the only compass you need. Choose happiness. This life is your message to the world. Let it be extraordinary!”
There will be a small memorial for the close childhood friends and family, and church family on Sunday, April 8, at 3 p.m. at Christ Community Church – Seventh Day Adventist in Bessemer.
We will be having a celebration of his life and benefit for fire victims in June. Details will be posted at a later date.
I love you Levi. Soar with the eagles.

---

Why I have the moral authority to call out the chief:

Before anyone starts – I graduated from the S.C. Fire Academy – and have been to the scene over well over 1,000 structure fires and spent nearly ten years eating almost daily with the Augusta Fire Department (best food in town).
I don’t claim to be extremely knowledgeable about many things – but I know fire. Period. The fast talkers who roll over the lapdogs in the U.P. press -know they better not try that crap on me. I will call you out on it!
Have taken gruesome fire photos for many departments around Augusta, GA back when digital cameras hadn’t been invented used the old 35 MM camera. I am saying all this background only to stop people from claiming I do not know fire – a usual misdirection used by fake people with motives.
Ask anyone from Augusta, GA on my personal Facebook page as I was WBBQ Car Three and worked as East Georgia guy for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and at several Augusta TV stations.

——-

Ironwood Public Safety Department

http://cityofironwood.org/public-safety/

https://www.facebook.com/IronwoodPSD/

http://cityofironwood.org/team-member-department/public-safety/

Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker

Mike Rimkus, Lieutenant
Adam Clemens, Sergeant
Andrew Leiphart, PSO
Jamie Chiapuzio, PSO
Brandon Snyder, Fire Marshal
Sheryl Norman, PSO
URGENT URGENT U.P. Breaking News Editorial and Expose – 3-12-18 – 11:30 a.m. ET – 10:30 a.m. CT

The Big Ironwood Cover-up and Lies

The shame of Ironwood, MI: Three men did not have to die

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-243

Why haven’t Ironwood public safety officials been straight with the public?

Everyone already knows the white elephant in the room.

The deaths of the three men in that horrible fire – could have been prevented – and should have been prevented.

How do we prove that?

First scroll down to end and see why this reporter has the moral authority and experience to make these claims including firefighter academy graduate and been at over 1,000 structure fires

Thick black smoke was reported in the initial fire is identical to thick black smoke in the second fire – yet they blamed the first fire on cooking and left the scene without a thorough investigation.

Ironwood Public Safety Director is trying to blame both fires on victim Levi Dean Watkins – when it was the department’s fault! PERIOD!

In fact, sounds like they are going to try to pin it on one of the dead mean – a man whom they essentially disparaged in the audio tapes.

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/02/21/many-hurt-in-ironwood-mi-apartment-building-fire

Anyone with even small fire training, knows that “thick black smoke” almost has to be petroleum-based – mixed with horrible toxins that spread across the city.

Remember there was an oil company attached in Ironwood – one of the many businesses destroyed. We find that very interesting.

Its just like the January 2018 fatal fire caused by an old oil burner that killed Leo Gruber and injured others in almost identical building in Calumet.

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/28/calumetfatalfire/

What was an innocent but tragic error by those at the first fire, has been turned into a cover-up with the chief refusing to talk about the first fire.

A message to Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker:

Don’t you dare try to blame this on the victims when it was your department’s fault.

It’s convenient to blame it on these low-income residents who are dead because the department did not properly investigate the first fire – PERIOD

Honest officers need to come forward for their own moral sanity because of these three dead men.

In fact, the Ironwood cops did not even spell one of the victims name’s correctly in a release. Verrette was misspelled Verrete, they left out one of the letters. What disrespect. Again, the shame.

June 2018 memorial service planned for three victims – and Director Klecker better not have the audacity to show his face:

57-year-old Mark Arnold Verrette
51-year-old Patrick James Somerville
27-year-old Levi Dean Watkins

Yes it was fine for Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker to praise the mutual aid – very slick, clever cover-up talk and a way to avoid what really happened. The shame.

Even heard the chief (they call him Director) actually misled the city council by not mentioning the first fire during his briefings on the blaze.

For that alone and for misleading the people – he should resign or be fired. This is not acceptable in the modern era.

I have always had a good relationship with police – but in past 20 years in U.P. police officials actually think they are above everyone else, use information as power and blatantly lie to the public – outright lies and by omission.

But it must be in your western U .P. water because the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Department is also losing credibility:
Because even the Gogebic County Sheriff and Tribal Police did not tell the public about what really happened at Thousand Island Lake – did not mention barge or crane or that victim was snowing for the barge.
Sheriff did not say if they told regulatory officials or even what the barge/crane was doing in the lake.
Now we hear the sheriff has hired a former disgraced Wisconsin cop who was arrested after an inmate death – these are the types of hires that old-fashioned crooked law enforcement bosses like because they can control the person.

We also heard that some of the public safety director’s minions are trying to say our audio tape (from broadcastify) of the fires is not real. One of many blatant lie folks.
I predict the final report on the triple fatal fire – if it is even made public – will say the cause is not known due to heavy damage. That’s why the audio tapes of police/fire communications of the first and second fires (an hour apart) actually speak for the victims.
Watch – Ironwood officials will make it difficult for the victim’s families to sue because they will pretend they know nothing – or they will blame it on a tenant – one of the dead men.

Ironwood please bring professionalism back to your questionable police/fire force.

There has to be at least one good-willed and truly professional officer/firefighter. It is your duty to stand up and tell the truth. If it were me, I would make secret recordings to gather evidence before coming out publicly.

Personally, we can not figure out why the chief still has his job – because all you have to do is listen to the tapes and it is 1,000 percent obvious that the first fire is connected to the second fire. Period.

I mean he either the chief (director) thinks he is a God – or doesn’t believe in America’s right to know.
We have had a lot of experience with good honest police and corrupt cops and sheriffs.

Crooked cops use that hidden info as leverage over people. In fact, the press releases are very vague with little substance. Crooked cops do not tell the public about much of what happens.

Wake up Mr. Director – you are not as privileged as you think you are.

Those who know what happened – like those who were quickly on the scene that morning – have a moral responsibility to three dead men to force the truth to be told.

I believe in a higher power, and I would not want to have that terrible lie and burden on my jacket on my final day – when I meet my Creator.

Put you cards on the table – be honest – the public should demand a hearing.
The lies, omissions and false info is not the making of a professional department. And I am sure there are some professionals on the Ironwood force who know this – but are scared to talk.
Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker – it is time to go sir. You and your department are suffering a severe public lack of credibility – and talking behind your back fearing retaliation.

——-

U.P. Breaking News is looking for photos of the other two fire victims, please send them to us:

——-

Patrick James Somerville
July 21, 1966 – February 21, 2018Patrick James Somerville, 51, of Ironwood, died Wednesday, February 21, 2018 in Ironwood.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation from 9-11 a.m., at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood,
A full obituary will be published at a later date.
McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, is assisting the family.
http://www.mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com/obituary/patrick-somerville

Levi Dean Watkins on left

Levi Dean Watkins on right

Levi Dean Watkins, right, with friends

Levi Dean Watkins, middle, with two friends

Levi Dean Watkins

Ironwood Public Safety Director is trying to blame both fires on victim Levi Dean Watkins – when it was the department’s fault! PERIOD!

March 8, 2018

IRONWOOD, Mich. – My sweet Levi Watkins, born Feb. 3, 1991, passed away in the recent fire on Feb. 21, 2018.
Levi was employed at several local places, including Burger King, Iron Nugget and, most recently, at Brewster’s Bar and Grill.
Levi loved food and people, family and friends, which included so many. He touched so many lives with his crazy self, always laughing and goofing around, always singing as he went. My heart will never recover.
To all of you, for your love and sympathy, I thank you.
Levi is survived by the loves of his life, Lexee Hembree, Evelyn Hembree and his brother, Daniel Watkins; his daughter, Ahlia Whitburn (Watkins), whom he loved with every breath he took; his grandmother, Shirley S. Holmes, and grandfather, C. Raymond Holmes, whom he adored and respected; his friend and surrogate father, David S. Elsner, and mother, Rhoda Holmes, whose life will never have the same meaning.
We loved and adored you Levi Dean, you lived your life just like the saying on your wall: “Follow your heart, it is the only compass you need. Choose happiness. This life is your message to the world. Let it be extraordinary!”
There will be a small memorial for the close childhood friends and family, and church family on Sunday, April 8, at 3 p.m. at Christ Community Church – Seventh Day Adventist in Bessemer.
We will be having a celebration of his life and benefit for fire victims in June. Details will be posted at a later date.
I love you Levi. Soar with the eagles.

---

Why I have the moral authority to call out the chief:

Before anyone starts – I graduated from the S.C. Fire Academy – and have been to the scene over well over 1,000 structure fires and spent nearly ten years eating almost daily with the Augusta Fire Department (best food in town).
I don’t claim to be extremely knowledgeable about many things – but I know fire. Period. The fast talkers who roll over the lapdogs in the U.P. press -know they better not try that crap on me. I will call you out on it!
Have taken gruesome fire photos for many departments around Augusta, GA back when digital cameras hadn’t been invented used the old 35 MM camera. I am saying all this background only to stop people from claiming I do not know fire – a usual misdirection used by fake people with motives.
Ask anyone from Augusta, GA on my personal Facebook page as I was WBBQ Car Three and worked as East Georgia guy for the Atlanta Journal Constitution and at several Augusta TV stations.

——-

Ironwood Public Safety Department

http://cityofironwood.org/public-safety/

https://www.facebook.com/IronwoodPSD/

http://cityofironwood.org/team-member-department/public-safety/

Ironwood Public Safety Director Gregory Klecker

Mike Rimkus, Lieutenant
Adam Clemens, Sergeant
Andrew Leiphart, PSO
Jamie Chiapuzio, PSO
Brandon Snyder, Fire Marshal
Sheryl Norman, PSO
Matthew Sterbenz, Sergeant
Colassaco, John, PSO
Adam Graser, PSO

“>Matthew Sterbenz, Sergeant
Colassaco, John, PSO
Adam Graser, PSO

Lots of U.P. News headlines – One heckuva a weekend in the Upper Peninsula – Four U.P. snowmobilers crashes with injuries, Chocolay Township depressed 13-year-old drinks bleach, U.P. newborn with possible meningitis, aerosol can explodes in Delta County man’s face, some unusual arrests including federal suspect struggles with cops, man lies to the cops – and gets charged with it – and more

URGENT URGENT U.P. Breaking News Bulletin and Headlines – 3-12-18 – 3:45 a.m. ET 

Weekend U.P. Headlines – Boy drinks bleach, newborn possible meningitis, numerous drunk drivers busted with very high blood alcohol levels, Delta County man gets facial injuries when an aerosol can explodes in trash he is burning (then accuses female partner), federal suspect charged with wrestling with cops and sometimes if you lie – that’s exactly what cops charge you with (They’ve heard it all)

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Upper Peninsula of Michigan) – Police and fire officials across the U.P. Were kept busy this weekend including a suicidal teen who drank bleach, a man who was injured and then angry when a pressured can exploded while he was burning trash.

There were at least four snowmobile accidents with injuries on Saturday, March 10, 2018 including three in Chippewa County and one in Keweenaw County.
The Keweenaw County accident on Brockway Mountain – and two of those in Chippewa County involved snowmobilers driving fast and crashing into trees in corners – and absolutely destroying their snowmobiles.
In fact, its amazing someone survived the Brockway wreck – because the sled was smashed.
No serious injuries but four sledders were hurt.

The other Chippewa County crash was a sledder crossing the ice on the St. Mary’s River in Detour Village off the coast from Spring Bay Road and S. River Street area. The man was traveling at a high rate of speed and flipped the snowmobile.
He was “up and walking” shortly after the crash.
U.P. Breaking News has now confirmed that there have been at least 9 snowmobile fatalities and three critical injuries in the past 11 weeks.

Yet the state refuses to put up big, big signs warning about curves and demanding the sledders slow down. (U.P. Trails are deadlier than the highways).

Speeding over 100 MPH on today’s snowmobiles is suicide – and there is no way to fix it without behavioral changes – so anyone who has a loved one on a snowmobile should give them hell about slowing down – big time hell.

—

In Delta County Sunday afternoon, March 11, 2018, paramedics and others were called to a report that a man was cut all over his face, bleeding and in pain.

It appears an aerosol type can was in trash that the victim was burning – and it “exploded all over his face.”

The man also was sick to his stomach and had shooting pains through his thighs.

The dispatcher then warned officers the man was mad at his female partner, accusing her of putting the can in the trash to be burned.

—

Meanwhile near tragedy in Marquette County on Saturday night, March 10, 2018 at the Teaching Family Homes facility for youth that have been horribly abused or severely neglected – and the major affects that causes on a young person.
A 13-year-old boy “drank bleach” in a suicide attempt. He was on the edge of the property with two other youths. An ambulance and police were sent – and the boy apparently was not seriously injured after allegedly taking “a few gulps of bleach.” So Sad.

—

In Marquette County, a federal prisoner was taken into custody – and even charged with attempting to obstructing/resisting arrest with law enforcement officers.
He is 28-year-old Walter Noe Aguilera-Aguilar (address unconfirmed).
Aguilera-Aguilar is being held on a no bond federal detainer and has a $5,000 bond set for attempted resisting arrest/obstructing a police officer.
Aguilera-Aguilar was booked into the Marquette County Jail at two minutes before midnight on Saturday, March 10, 2018.
The details are not known.

—

Meanwhile – another man was busted Sunday afternoon for lying to the cops.
18-year-old Christopher Michael Hughes of Marquette, MI was booked into the Marquette County Jail at 1:49 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 11, 2018.
Hughes remains jailed this morning (Monday) on a charge of “lying to a peace officer.”
The details are not known.

—

At least five people were busted this weekend in Marquette County and another five in Delta County for drunken driving – one suspect in Marquette had a blood alcohol level of .076 and another was charged under the “no tolerance” law – plus one woman allegedly was driving drunk with a kid in the car. U.P. Breaking News generally only reports names on felony drunken driving – although it varies by case – including when suspects resist arrest.

Non-scientific estimate by UPBN based on pullovers by police – 25 percent of U.P. drivers are illegal.

It appears at least one in four (25 percent) of Yooper drivers are either suspended, no insurance, or drunk driving with multiple arrests. That’s scary.

Generally though, we have heard some U.P. police running tags of older vehicles – while still rolling – before an official stop because its the poorer drivers who are most likely to be rolling illegal for something.

—

And finally on Sunday, heard about a 13-day old baby rushed from Munising Memorial Hospital the U.P. Health System Marquette to be treated for possible meningitis. Again, how terrible and gut-wrenchingly sad. Hopefully the docs are the Marquette hospital will work their magic. Prayers.

——-

Editors note: If you did not see it – check out our FB advisory from Sunday on the downstate woman wanted by USCG Sector Soo for taking photos of the Soo Locks from an apparently restricted area. No word on whether the coasties had a chance to have a conversation with the woman. Plus see our report on the truck through the ice on Little Bay de Noc on Sunday.

 

With last week’s heroin wins, federal prosecutors in Marquette, MI are preparing take down an armed meth ring allegedly operating in three U.P. counties

URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-14-18 – 5:30 p.m. ET –

Federal prosecutors prep for meth ring that allegedly spread the devious highly-addictive drug in Ontonagon, Gogebic and Baraga counties:

Where is the ever-present pseudoephedrine supply coming from?

Hundreds – if not thousands of lives – have been ruined in the U.P. due to Meth, heroin, opioids, and fentanyl – and cops are trying hard to stop the flow

Dion Roy Jolliff

30-year-old Jennifer Elizabeth Smith of Ontonagon, MI

27-year-old Kathryn Maria Hellen of Ironwood, MI

35-year-old Patrick Joseph Sievers of Ironwood, MI

Feds brought down heroin ring during trials last week – with several convictions and one not guilty verdict

(Scroll down to read all new federal indictments – download for free as we paid for them  another one of those five hour reads like meth trial)

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Marquette, MI) – Federal prosecutors in Marquette, MI are now focused on an upcoming big meth trial – this after they got several heroin distribution convictions last week and only one loss.

Federal prosecutors have one meth defendant ready to testify and three others charged in new indictments for an alleged meth distribution ring that distributed untold pounds of the deadly drug in three Upper Peninsula counties.

The amounts of meth involved are vague – however in one case seven ounces was sold and in another incident 220 grams. Police confiscated weapons, thousands of dollars in cash and a plethora of items used to manufacture and sell meth like scales and baggies. The ring operated for at least two years, according to the indictment.

Like all good undercover probes, police use wires and confidential informants to make purchases of meth.

Charged in the meth ring that prosecutors say was operating in the western Upper Peninsula:

35-year-old Patrick Joseph Sievers of Ironwood, MI
27-year-old Kathryn Maria Hellen of Ironwood, MI
43-year-old Dion R. Jolliff of Ontonagon, MI (Milwaukee and Watertown, WI)
30-year-old Jennifer Elizabeth Smith of Ontonagon, MI

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An initial pretrial conference on the latest meth distribution indictment for Jolliff, Hellen and Sievers is set for March 7, 2018. The trio are set to go to trial on April 9, 2017.

In their arsenal, federal prosecutions have suspects on audio and videotapes – made during undercover buys with an informant wearing a wire.

The charges involve the distribution of meth across the western Upper Peninsula – while armed with handguns – during most of 2016 and 2017.

The indictments claim some of the suspects were armed with handguns “in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.”

The weapons included a loaded Taurus International .357 magnum revolver and a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol. The operation allegedly were run from homes in Ontonagon and Gogebic counties including on Dutch Road in Rockland, MI; and on Pennsylvania Ave. in Ontonagon.

Prosecutors say Sievers, with help from Smith, allegedly distributed meth in Ontonagon and Gogebic Counties. Prosecutors say Jolliff, Sievers and Hellen allegedly distributed meth in Ontonagon and Baraga counties. Trial is set in less than two months.

Recently there have been several motions in the case that allowed two defendants to be released on bond after completing substance abuse treatment.

The Marquette federal prosecutors on the case are Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul D. Lochner and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maarten Vermaat.

The cases are now joined together – after numerous motions, indictments, and even a superseding indictment.
The trio were given an extension to file their motions and other pretrial paperwork because of the new indictment in December 2017.

U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney

Chief U.S. District Court Judge the Hon. Paul L. Maloney approved a prosecution motion to dismiss previous charges against Kathryn Maria Hellen and Diona Roy Jolliff – as a new indictment was handed down.
On Nov. 27, 2017, Smith entered into a plea agreement with federal prosecutors.
Smith agrees to plead guilty to one of the meth distribution charges in the first superseding indictment.

Smith told federal prosecutors she bought meth from Sievers in Ontonagon County on March 23, 2017 for the purpose of distribution. Smith has agreed to cooperate with a myriad of law enforcement agencies as the feds, state ad local police try to stop the endless supply of meth in the Upper Peninsula.

Smith could received the maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, or on on the other end of the justice scale – the minimum penalty is three years of supervised release. On Feb. 12, 2018, a judge approved personal recognizance bond (PR) bond for Hellen. She was/is undergoing intense treatment at Great Lakes Recovery Center.

Basically, the order extends bond conditions from Hellen’s initial arrest remain in place, as she and Jolliff have been charged in a new indictment.

These conditions for the Hellen PR bond includes do not leave the U.P. , cannot possession or consume alcohol and illegal drugs, can’t possession guns, and must surrender if ordered to by federal pretrial services.

She cannot have any contact – in any way – with witnesses in the case inducing, but not limited to, two witnesses identified only by initials P.S. and J.S.

On Feb. 9, 2018, Jolliff requested a jury trial, according to Jolliff’s Initial Pretrial Conference Summary Statement.

On Dec. 12, 2017, U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy P. Greeley approved the dismissal of the previous indictment against Jolliff and Helen as the new superseding indictment had just been returned.

1-29-18 Pretrial extension for defense motions for Jolliff, Hellen, and Sievers

2-9-18 Dion R. Jolliff asks jury trial Initial Pretrial Conference Summary Statement

2-17-18 Judge Greeley orders Hellen PR bond

10-25-17 Criminal Complaint Kathryn Maria Hellen 1

10-25-17 Criminal Complaint Kathryn Maria Hellen 2

10-31-17 Penalty Sheet Kathryn Maria Hellen

11-1-17 Superseding indictment Sievers, Smith

11-21-17 Indictment Hellen, Jolliff

11-27-17 Plea Agreement Jennifer Elizabeth Smith

12-5-17 U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy P. Greeley dismissed indictment of Jolliff, Hellen

12-5-17 Chief U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney orders dismissal Jolliff, Hellen without prejudice

12-5-17 Motion to dismiss Hellen, Jolliff because now in new case with Sievers

12-5-17 Penalty sheet 2nd Superseding indictment Hellen, Jolliff, Sievers

12-5-17 Superseding indictment Jolliff, Sievers, Hellen

12-7-17 Hellen motion for bond stipulations, conditions

12-20-17 Jennifer Elizabeth Smith bond motion to attend treatment

Patrick Joseph Sievers (1)
Office: Northern Division (2) Filed: 06/20/2017
County: Ontonagon Terminated: Reopened:
Magistrate Case: 2:17-mj-00019-TPG

Count: 1 Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 2 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 3 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 4 Citation: 18:924C.F Offense Level: 4
18:924(c)(1)(A)(i) VIOLENT CRIME/DRUGS/MACHINE GUN; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Count: 1s Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 4s Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 5s Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 6s Citation: 21:856=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:856(a)(1), 21:856(b), 21:856(d) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL/DISTRIBUTE/DISPENSE; maintaining drug-involved premises
Count: 7s Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 8s Citation: 18:924C.F Offense Level: 4
18:924(c)(1)(A)(i) VIOLENT CRIME/DRUGS/MACHINE GUN; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Count: 1ss Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 2ss Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 3ss Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 4ss Citation: 21:856=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:856(a)(1), 21:856(b), 21:856(d) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL/DISTRIBUTE/DISPENSE; maintaining drug-involved premises
Count: 5ss Citation: 18:924C.F Offense Level: 4
18:924(c)(1)(A)(i), 18:924(c)(1)(C)(i) VIOLENT CRIME/DRUGS/MACHINE GUN; possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Count: 6ss Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine
Count: 7ss Citation: 18:924C.F Offense Level: 4
18:924(c)(1)(A)(i), 18:924(c)(1)(C)(i) VIOLENT CRIME/DRUGS/MACHINE GUN; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Defendant Custody Status: Custody This Court

defendant: Patrick Joseph Sievers represented by Elizabeth A. LaCosse (FPD)(Designation Public Defender or Community Defender Appointment)
Phone: (906) 226-3050
Fax: (906) 273-0070
Email: beth_lacosse@fd.org
plaintiff: USA represented by Paul Lochner(Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: paul.lochner@usdoj.gov
plaintiff: USA represented by Maarten Vermaat(Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: Maarten.Vermaat@usdoj.gov

Jennifer Elizabeth Smith (2)
Office: Northern Division (2) Filed: 06/20/2017
County: Ontonagon Terminated: Reopened:
Other Court Case: None

Count: 1 Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 2-3 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 4 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine
Defendant Custody Status: Custody This Court

defendant: Jennifer Elizabeth Smith represented by Michael J. Manning (Designation CJA Appointment)
Phone: (906) 786-7224
Email: mmanning@mmanninglaw.com
plaintiff: USA represented by Paul Lochner (Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: paul.lochner@usdoj.gov
plaintiff: USA represented by Maarten Vermaat(Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: Maarten.Vermaat@usdoj.gov

Kathryn Maria Hellen (3)
Office: Northern Division (2) Filed: 06/20/2017
County: Ontonagon Terminated: Reopened:
Other Court Case: None

Count: 1 Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 10 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 12 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 13 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 14 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 15 Citation: 21:856=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:856(a)(1), 21:856(b), 21:856(d) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL/DISTRIBUTE/DISPENSE; maintaining drug-involved premises
Count: 16 Citation: 18:924C.F Offense Level: 4
18:924(c)(1)(A)(i) VIOLENT CRIME/DRUGS/MACHINE GUN; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime
Count: 8 Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Defendant Custody Status: Released

defendant: Kathryn Maria Hellen represented by Monica Mary Lubiarz-Quigley(Designation CJA Appointment)
Phone: (906) 253-9330
Email: office544@yahoo.com
plaintiff: USA represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Lochner
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: paul.lochner@usdoj.gov
plaintiff: USA represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maarten Vermaat
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: Maarten.Vermaat@usdoj.gov

Dion Roy Jolliff (4)
Office: Northern Division (2) Filed: 06/20/2017
County: Ontonagon Terminated: Reopened:
Other Court Case: None

Count: 10 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine and aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 11 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine
Count: 12 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C), 18:2(a) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 8 Citation: 21:846=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:846, 21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(A)(viii), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
Count: 9 Citation: 21:841A=CD.F Offense Level: 4
21:841(a)(1), 21:841(b)(1)(C) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE – SELL, DISTRIBUTE, OR DISPENSE; distribution of methamphetamine
Defendant Custody Status: Custody This Court

defendant: Dion Roy Jolliff represented by Richard E. Zambon(Designation CJA Appointment)
Phone: (616) 456-7831
Email: rick@zambonlaw.com
plaintiff: USA represented by Paul Lochner(Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: paul.lochner@usdoj.gov
plaintiff: USA represented by Maarten Vermaat(Designation Assistant U.S. Attorney)
Phone: (906) 226-2500
Email: Maarten.Vermaat@usdoj.gov

Wisconsin man arrested in Marquette County on rape charge, plus charges filed against Marquette woman involved in Friday’s apartment standoff with cops; plus a pair of downstate teens arrested in a theft case – one is a high school football stand-out

U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-12-18 – 8 p.m. ET

CSC, felonious assault, fraud/theft crimes among arrested today in Marquette County, MI

Andrew Sobay

Lorin Rochon

Tatyana Cunegin

Kevontae Jewitt

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Marquette, MI) – Serious charges were filed today in Marquette County against five people including a Wisconsin accused of rape, the woman involved inlast Friday’s stand-off at a Marquette apartment complex – plus a pair of downstate teens charged in a theft crime – one is a football standout.

Andrew Sobay

Andrew Sobay

Andrew Sobay

33-year-old Andrew David Sobay of Marinette, WI was booked into the Marquette County Jail (MCJ) at 5 p.m. ET tonight, Mon., Feb. 12, 2018.

Sobay is charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct (CSC) and with being a fugitive from justice.

Sobay also had ties to Escanaba and Menominee.

Sobay is being held without bond.

Details about the case have not been released.

——-

Lorin Rochon

Charges were filed today against the woman who allegedly pointed a handgun a police in Marquette triggering a stand-off on Fri., Feb. 9, 2018.

31-year-old Lorin Elise Rochon of Marquette, MI was booked into the Marquette County Jail (MCJ) at at 4:15 p.m. ET this afternoon, Mon., Feb. 12, 2018.

Rochon is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon/felonious assault.

Rochon is being held on a $150,000 bond.

She is charged in connection with this past Friday’s stand-off with police from several agencies at her apartment at a complex located at 200 Northland Drive in Marquette.

Police went to her apartment on a well-being check.

——-

Kevontae Jewitt

Tatyana Cunegin

Two downstate teens were arrested in Marquette County this morning and charged with numerous theft related felonies- and one is a high school football standout.

Tatyana Cunegin

18-year-old Tatyana Cunegin of Ypsilanti, MI was booked into the Marquette County Jail (MCJ) on two felonies at 11:05 a.m. ET this morning, Mon., Feb. 12, 2018.

Cunegin is charged financial transaction device forgery and larceny from a building.

Cunegin is being held on a $10,000 bond.

Details about the arrest and the crime have not been released by police.

—

Kevontae Jewitt

18-year-old Kevonta Jewitt of Harper Woods, MI was booked into the Marquette County Jail (MCJ) on three felonies at 10:16 a.m. ET this morning, Mon., Feb. 12, 2018.

Jewitt is charged with using a computer to commit a crime, financial transaction device forgery and larceny from a building.

Jewit is being held on a $10,000 bond.

Jewitt is mentioned on numerous websites that touted his recent abilities as a defensive end in high school. It is unknown why the couple were in Marquette County.

——-

33-year-old Alex Acevedo (address unconfirmed) was booked into the Marquette County Jail (MCJ) at 3:26 p.m. ET this afternoon, Mon., Feb. 12, 2018.

Acevedo is being held on an inmate detainer and is charged with a parole violation.

Acevedo is being held without bond.

——-

Andrew Sobay

Lorin Rochon

Tatyana Cunegin

Kevontae Jewitt

 

——-

Trout Creek, MI: Fatal fire kills man and a boy on Old Mill Town Road in Ontonagon County; Six people have died in U.P. fires this winter

URGENT URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin Update – 2-12-18 – 1:50 p.m.

Young boy, man killed Sunday in Trout Creek, MI house fire

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Trout Creek, MI) – A Sunday morning blaze killed two people including a young boy in Ontonagon County.

About 6:38 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, firefighters were called to an engulfed house fire on Old Mill Town Road.

Killed in the blaze was a 48-year-old man and a 6-year-old boy. The home was destroyed. The  names of the victims have not been released.

The cause of the fatal fire remains under investigation by the Michigan State Police Fire Marshal and the Ontonagon County Sheriff’s department.

U.P. Breaking News has discovered one common thread in fatal fires so far this winter,  and last winter’s fatal fires across the U.P.

The blazes all occurred in older wood-frame homes – none in modern homes. The homes often have old wiring, and in some U.P cities a lot of renovation created over the decades are ab ig fire hazard.

It is not clear if Trout Creek fire was in one of the older wood frame homes.

At least six people have died in Upper Peninsula fires this winter (2017-2018). At last six people died in U.P. fires during the winter of 2016-2017 – all but one were in older homes, and one was in an old camper used as a home.

Other who had died this winter in house fires:

22-year-old Krista Urbanc, 23-year-old Zachary Johnson, and their unborn child were killed  in a January 9, 2018 house fire in Marquette.

46-year-old Leo Gruber of Calumet, died on January 27, 2018 in an old brick apartment building fire.
***Remember to have a fire evacuation plan for all family members – practice these escape routes – and discuss it with children – Practice – Practice – Practice.

Among those assisting on the scene in Ontonagon County Sunday morning were the Trout Creek Township Volunteer Fire Department, the Duncan Township Volunteer Fire Department, Ontonagon County Victim Services Unit, Michigan State Police  including K-9 dogs trained to work fire scenes.

DRIVE-BY BAR SHOOTING IN GOGEBIC COUNTY: SWAT called for high risk arrest after “drive-by” shooting incident – Bessemer Township man arrested – Gogebic Iron SWAT Team paged into the sheriff’s office for a Sunday call in Bessemer, MI area

U.P. Breaking News Bulletin Update – 2-12-18

The man charged with five felonies in connection with a drive-by shooting involving an assault rifle in Gogebic County was arraigned today.

Cory William Leuzzo

29-year-old Cory William Leuzzo of Ramsay, MI is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, and felony firearms possession, discharging a firearm from a vehicle, discharging a firearm at/or inside a building and threat of terrorism.

Bond for Leuzzo is set at $100,000.

The felonies were authorized by Gogebic County Prosecutor Nick Jacobs.
Leuzzo allegedly used an assault rifle to fire numerous rounds from his vehicle near the Keystone Bar.
The shooting incident happened after a Leuzzo and female acquaintance had an argument.
Nobody was hurt.

2-12-18 – Bessemer Township man arrested by SWAT after drive-by shooting incident earlier Sunday – 1:10 p.m. CT

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Bessemer Township, MI) – The Gogebic Iron SWAT Team was called out Sunday afternoon to make a high risk arrest following a “drive-by” shooting incident earlier in the day near a bar in Gogebic County.

No one was injured during the arrest or during the reported shooting incident.

A 29-year-old Bessemer Township man remains jailed after his arrest about 4 p.m. CT on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018. Officers planned the arrest after 12-hour probe into a reported shooting incident near the Keystone Bar in Ramsay.

It is not clear if the bar was targeted or something/someone else. A motive has not been released.

Gogebic County 911 received the call about a shooting about 1:55 a.m. CT on Sunday. Gogebic County deputies and Michigan State Police responded to the call.

The man is being held under a $100,000 bond and is to be arraigned today.

——-

URGENT URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-11-18 – 2:52 p.m. CT – 3:52 p.m. ET

Gogebic Iron SWAT Team activated on a Sunday – Call in Bessemer, MI area

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

**If you have information on this event – please privately contact U.P. Breaking News

(Bessemer, MI) – The Gogebic Iron SWAT Team was activated this Sunday afternoon for a situation in Bessemer, MI.

SWAT Team was paged at 1:50 p.m. CT on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018.

U.P. Breaking News decided to hold this story for about an hour – to give police time to respond.

The Gogebic Iron SWAT Team was paged and told to gather at the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Department.

The incident is said to be in the Bessemer, MI area. All police/EMS feeds from that end of the U.P. abruptly ended about 2:15 p.m. CT – could be coincidence..

The team has been used in many drug raids and to help end hostage/domestic type situations.

No injuries have been reported.

Temps will continue to drop to dangerous levels below zero (-16 F, -25 wind-chill) as day turns to evening and into night.

Four snowmobilers are lucky to be alive after their sleds went to the bottom of Lake Superior near Grand Island

URGENT UPDATE U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-3-18 – 3:25 p.m. CT
Snowmobile accident a short time ago in Hurley, WI at Kimball Drive at Center Drive.
Victim has possible broken left leg. There was another incident but it did not involve a snowmobile, rather confusion.

URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-3-18 – Update 4:02 p.m. ET

The U.P. snowmobile death toll almost went to 10 today – in one fell swoop

Four snowmobilers take unwanted swim in Lake Superior but escaped death

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Upper Peninsula of Michigan) – There have been numerous snowmobile wrecks over past 24 hours including sleds on bottom of Lake Superior.

A snowmobiler is lucky to be alive after falling off his sled in Wakefield about 2:40 p.m. CT, today Sat., Feb.3, 2018. The incident is on Sunday Lake offshore from the Wakefield VFW Post. The man fell off his sled but did not crash. He will be checked by paramedics.

But none as wild as what happened today on Munising Bay.

This morning four snowmobilers were dumped into Lake Superior due to shifting ice near Grand Island.

There was also another snowmobile crash this morning in Alger County, and one last night. In both cases minor injuries including a man with a dislocated shoulder this morning. Plus two people received minor injuries in a snowmobile versus car crash in Gogebic County this morning. Not only on the trail, there have been numerous car accidents today in the U.P.

So far, six snowmobilers have died in U.P. accidents this winter.

There has been lots of concern this winter – that there might be a fatal wreck on Munising Bay due to quickly shifting ice and unexpected open areas.

This morning, four snowmobilers escaped death – and escaped injury other than headaches – when their sleds plunged into Lake Superior near the east channel off Grand Island.

The wet snowmobilers made it to Grand Island. The victims do not live in the Upper Peninsula.

These visiting snowmobilers were rescued by hovercraft thanks to the Alger County Sheriff’s Department Rescue Unit 21. Alger EMS was dispatched to checkout the cold victims.
Now the Herculean task of getting the snowmobiles off the bottom of Lake Superior.
Ice conditions in portions of Munising Bay and off Grand Island remains very dangerous especially in that east channel where you could literally die.
Despite the cold, ice conditions are effected by current and occasional warming

Blizzard-like whiteouts partial cause 6th snowmobile fatality of season in Upper Peninsula – plus a snowmobile crash tonight in Alger County: With nightfall, more wrecks and a special weather warning from Chippewa County Sheriff Michael D. Bitnar and the National Weather Service

URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 2-1-18 – 8:45 p.m. ET

Hazardous Weather Conditions

Gale Warning until February 1, 10:00 PM CST

Hazardous Weather Outlook

Heavy Freezing Spray Warning until February 3, 12:00 AM CST

Road and Trail conditions dangerous: Dozens of crashes and off the trail in U.P. – 6th snowmobile fatality of winter in U.P. – and special weather advisories

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – “Visibility is very, very poor at this time,” radioed an official in Alger County at 8 p.m. ET.

That sums up conditions in many areas of the U.P. tonight that has claimed at least one life and caused closures like – M-28 between Harvey and Munising, and the Mackinac Bridge. Winds whipped an early morning house fire and caused a “rekindle” on Maple Street in the Soo earlier today.

Sadly, the Upper Peninsula snowmobile death toll continues to climb with the latest caused in part because of the deadly weather conditions that exist in some areas of the U.P.

With nightfall, the wind-chills are in the double digits below zero.

The latest snowmobile fatality occurred today in Chippewa County – and today dozens of U.P. crashes due to weather include a pickup truck that rear-ended a semi tractor trailer truck in Raco, MI. (Read press release – and they will be sending a photo).

Meanwhile as we write this story (7:25 p.m.) word of a snowmobile accident with injuries – this time in Alger County (scroll down to see what we know, plus we will add updates later if needed to the top of page).

Chippewa County Sheriff Michael D. Bitnar has issued a special warning about the weather – and so has the national weather service.

The latest victim is 49-year-old Kristen Dale Brown of Portland, MI who died today on Snowmobile Trail Number 8 near the Brimley Grade Road. The victim was traveling faster than trail conditions allowed – and was thrown from his machine into the middle of the trail.

Due to white-out conditions, a second snowmobiler did not see the Brown and “ran into the victim” who was lying on the trail, Sheriff Bitnar says.
The conditions at the time were “blowing snow and snow dust.”

It’s not clear if the two snowmobilers were traveling together in a group.
The “second snowmobiler was unable to see the fallen snowmobiler lying in the trail,” Sheriff Bitnar said.
Assisting the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department at the snowmobile fatality were the Bay Mills Police Department, Bay Mills Conservation Department, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Bay Mills and Superior Fire and EMS.

Now Alger County – Cell phone calls from the scene were dropping off while calling 911 – and different locations were given.

The confusion because one dropped call mentioned the bringing a victim out to the casino in Christmas, MI.
Meanwhile there is a snowmobile accident on the trail near the Seney Township and Burt Township line.

The Burt Township Volunteer Fire Department, Alger EMS, and law enforcement responding.

Reports said victim is on the “Adams trail” suffering a possible broken leg or hip. He cannot be moved by other snowmobilers.
Staging location is Twin Lakes Road, but just changed because a  rescue vehicle track-vehicle break down on scene.