Category: Elaine Bacon Literacy Program

by Dongping Ye with Denise Heikinen I’m happy to introduce one of our newest students in the literacy program, Dongping Ye. Dongping is from Harbin, China and has come to Houghton to live with his daughter, Xinyu, and her family. Dongping knew only a little English when he started visiting me on Friday mornings, but … Continue reading Beef Stew with Potatoes and Tomatoes 炖牛肉 

On December 3rd, the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program participated in its first ever Giving Tuesday event at the Copper Country Mall. Giving Tuesday takes place annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and provides an opportunity for local tax exempt nonprofits to encourage people to give back to their communities.  Puti and Mary during their shift … Continue reading Celebrating Giving Tuesday

On January 23, 2025, International Neighbors gathered for a delightful hands-on culinary experience led by Kimberly Ann M. Lopez, a multi-talented member of the Michigan Tech community. Kim, who is pursuing a B.S. in Civil Engineering at Michigan Technological University, also holds leadership roles as the President of the Chi Epsilon Michigan Tech Chapter, Secretary … Continue reading Lumpia Making with Kim: A Delicious Cultural Journey

Join us every Thursday from 10:00 AM to noon at Portage Lake United Church (1400 E Houghton Ave, Houghton, MI). Here are some highlights from our Winter Diary January - June 2025: January 16: Colombia with Maria Gencoglu Explore the vibrant culture of Colombia with our newest member Maria! January 23: Philippine Culture & Lumpia with Kimberly Lopez Immerse … Continue reading International Neighbors Winter 2025

On December 3rd, the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program proudly participated in the Copper Shores Giving Tuesday event at the Copper Country Mall. This inspiring gathering brought together a vibrant community of local nonprofits, each sharing their unique vision and mission while supporting one another's impactful work. It was a joy to connect with so many … Continue reading Celebrating Giving Tuesday

By Cindy Febilia Hi, I’m Cindy from Indonesia. I want to tell you about my journey to take the IELTS test. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an international standardized test of English language proficiency for non-native English language speakers. The IELTS test has two modules: Academic and General Training. I took the academic test because I need to apply … Continue reading IELTS Test

by Yi Wang On November 11th, while the United States observes Veterans Day, on the other side of the world, people in China are experiencing the largest annual online shopping festival—Double Eleven. Originally called "Singles' Day" in China, it got its name because the number '1' resembles a stick, which humorously refers to single people … Continue reading ‘Singles’ Day’ – The Largest Annual Shopping Festival in China

In this special episode from Copper Shores podcast (starting at minute 25), Denise Heikinen (Co-Director of the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program) sits down with the host to share insights into the transformative work being done through the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program. For years, this program has been empowering individuals in our community, fostering literacy and … Continue reading Discover the Impact of Giving Tuesday with Denise Heikinen on Copper Shores #77 Podcast!