August Sit-In at Copper Harbor helps to raise funds
15-year-old Jenn Stigers of Copper Harbor has made a significant impact on the drive to raise funds to purchase Hunter’s Point by Grant Township. On Thursday, August 5 at 5 PM, Jenn began a 5 day outdoor “Sit-In” using the unique “Big Chair” at Copper Harbor’s Pines Resort to raise pledges and donations toward the township’s purchase of Hunter’s Point.
On Tuesday, August 10, at 5 PM, Jenn came down from the “Big Chair” that had been her home for 120 hours. She had endured sun, rain, wind, lightning and thunder but nothing dampened her spirits. For her efforts she had raised over $7,600 in donations and pledges. Her parents, Vicki and Ken Stigers, owners of the Pines Resort, hosted a hot dog roast in celebration of her accomplishment.
The Calumet High School sophomore says “the idea just popped into my head to get active in the community for a good cause”. She admits it was “pretty crazy, yet I really wanted to do it”. “My parents were hesitant at first, but understand my strong feelings for this community and helped me make the many posters I put up”.
Eager to help her with her fund raising effort, her many supportive friends and family took her place in the chair when she took one of six fifteen-minute breaks every 24 hours. “I was quite prepared with books, radio, phone, donation bucket, and a tent in the event of bad weather,” Jenn stated.
A new resident, Jenn first hiked Hunter’s Point on snowshoes last winter with her friend, Miranda Kilpela. An outdoor enthusiast, Jenn wanted to help preserve the public access to this beautiful nature area for the public to enjoy.
Grant Township's Richard Powers praised Jenn for her efforts. “In spite of the many weather challenges she maintained her enthusiasm and was always ready with big smile and a friendly wave. When asked if she could finish, her answer “I can do this” sums up her drive and determination. We are fortunate to have Jenn in our community.
