We are saddened to share the news that our former member, Lida Ryszarda Pelc, passed away on Sunday. Lida was a cherished part of our community, known for her warmth, creativity, and enduring connection to International Neighbors, even after moving away. Lida first joined the Hancock Home Study Club during the 1989–1990 year and later … Continue reading Remembering Lida Ryszarda Pelc
International Neighbors Potluck: Celebrating Maria’s 80th Birthday & Minni’s Farewell
Last week’s potluck on July 10th was a truly special occasion—thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Maria’s 80th birthday and to bid farewell to Minni and Ben. We send our warmest wishes to Maria, who has been a beloved co-founder and guiding light of International Neighbors for the past 55 years (or … Continue reading International Neighbors Potluck: Celebrating Maria’s 80th Birthday & Minni’s Farewell
Wrapping Up for Summer: Sharing Stories and Reflections
Today was the last session of the Randy and Jill's class before our summer break, and we had a really special time together. This morning, the class were attended by Judy, Sabrina, Patria, Pichai, Puti, and Taegyu. Jill brought four great questions that led us into a meaningful and honest conversation about home, life in … Continue reading Wrapping Up for Summer: Sharing Stories and Reflections
Student Testimonial: Yi Wang
I’m Yi Wang. I arrived in Houghton three years ago, to support my husband’s PhD study at Michigan Technological University. While adapting to a completely new academic and cultural environment, improving my English and becoming a student at MTU were my top priorities, and joining the EBLP program about a year ago turned out to … Continue reading Student Testimonial: Yi Wang
A Cool Adventure Underground: EBLP Visits the Delaware Mine
With summer sun shining down and temperatures reaching into the high 80s, the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program took a much-anticipated trip to the historic Delaware Mine in Mohawk. It turned out to be a perfect day to go 100 steps underground—into the cool, shadowy past of Michigan’s mining history. The Delaware Mine, first opened in … Continue reading A Cool Adventure Underground: EBLP Visits the Delaware Mine
New Picture Dictionaries Available for Students!
Thanks to generous donations from our recent Giving Tuesday event—sponsored by Copper Shores—our program has purchased several copies of the Oxford Picture Dictionary for student use. These dictionaries are a fantastic resource for home study. You're welcome to borrow a copy! Just ask Denise or Jan, and they'll be happy to lend you one.Each page features detailed … Continue reading New Picture Dictionaries Available for Students!
Meet the Tutor: Randall Freisinger
For this month's Elaine Bacon Literacy Program spotlight, we are thrilled to introduce Randall Freisinger, one of our dedicated tutors. With decades of teaching experience and a passion for language and culture, Randay brings a warm and thoughtful presence to every session. Get to know more about him and the journey that brought him to … Continue reading Meet the Tutor: Randall Freisinger
Conversation Partners Appreciation Lunch
A social gathering for the current EBLP Conversation Partners was held at the Portage Lake United Church on May 2, 2025. The board organized this informal lunch gathering to express their thanks and to give the volunteers and student partners an opportunity to meet each other, ask questions, and share experiences. There are presently twelve … Continue reading Conversation Partners Appreciation Lunch
Meet the Tutor: Mary Brunet
Mary Elizabeth Brunet has been part of the Houghton/Hancock community for most of her life and is a familiar face to many. As the treasurer of the Elaine Bacon Literacy Program (EBLP), she brings not only her organizational skills but also a deep commitment to helping others. Get to know more about Mary, her volunteer … Continue reading Meet the Tutor: Mary Brunet
Meet the Tutor: Jan Handler
We’re excited to introduce you to Jan Handler, the secretary of Elaine Bacon Literacy Program (EBLP) and coordinator of our Conversation Partner program. Jan has been an integral part of our organization since moving to Houghton, bringing warmth, experience, and a passion for connection to her work with students. Jan Handler Let's get to know … Continue reading Meet the Tutor: Jan Handler

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