Kim Wilderspin, Robin Hakola, Sandi Izzard Win LIFT Contest

Lucas Izzard Foundation for Teens members and volunteers (from left) Erin Mertaugh, Olivia Huffman, Teresa Heise, Wendy Wagoner, Mark Izzard, Rosemary Hitchens, Amy Izzard, Casey Hakola, Willie Heise, Lana Causley, and Dawn Griffin pause while setting up a February 16 spaghetti dinner fundraiser and dessert contest.

The Lucas Izzard Foundation for Teens (LIFT) is seeking two board members to fill two open seats, and has been training its members in conflict resolution. Its mission is to improve the lives and welfare of struggling teens in the area.

Members have been participating in Peace Makers, training for people who want to promote keeping the peace and resolving conflict in a non-violent way, said member Teresa Heise. Participants who are trained will be to take their knowledge into schools and speak with students, or they can organize peace-keeping groups. Twenty people have attended the training, including four teens from Pickford, who are working on suicide prevention in their district.

Last month, LIFT hosted a spaghetti dinner fundraiser and dessert contest. Kim Wilderspin of Marquette Township won first place in the contest and a twonight stay at Kewadin Resort and Casino in Sault Ste. Marie. Robin Hakola of Cedarville won second place and a vase from Windblown Glass of Cedarville. Sandi Izzard of Cedarville won third place and a gift basket from Creekside Herbs in Cedarville.

The organization had a nice turnout for the dinner, Mrs. Heise said, and many entries in the dessert contest, which was judged by LIFT members. The organization sponsored a successful teen dance after the dinner.

LIFT meets monthly at Les Cheneaux Community Library in Cedarville. Meeting dates and times vary, and are posted in The St. Ignace News community calendar.

Anyone interested in applying for the board seats may send a letter to Mrs. Heise at 4963 Simmons Road, Hessel, Michigan 49745.