NIAGARA, Wis. — Spring has sprung. At least according to the calendar, which claims the first day of spring to be March 20. Living this far up north, we know enough not to pay attention to the calendar so do not expect much from the month of March at all. But now half of April is behind us, and we are still patiently waiting for the snow to stop, the rain to ease, and some sunny days to green up our lawns and bring out the buds on the trees. A few brave tulips have poked up their noses in our yard, but so far that is about it.

Despite the tardiness of spring, I am always thankful to be living where I am. Spring may not come as early for us, but we rarely experience the dangerous weather systems experienced in other parts of the country. My sister lives in California and has endured droughts, scorching temperatures, and the threat of wildfires for years. My brother lives in the Chicago area and while he has already mowed his grass several times before our snow is even gone, he often gets more snow and cold than we do thanks to his proximity to Lake Michigan. And my brother-in-law will be returning from Florida in the coming weeks and is concerned about driving through “tornado alley” on the way home.

As I watch the weather each evening, I do not always like what I hear, but I am generally impressed at the accuracy of the reports and the forecasting that is possible. This was not always the case. I read a very interesting book titled “Isaac’s Storm” that gave an account of the hurricane that nearly leveled Galveston, Texas, on Sept. 8, 1900. Written by Erik Larsen, who has penned a number of excellent books of historic fiction, it chronicles how the storm ramped up, how the signs were not taken seriously by anyone, and the ensuing devastation and loss of life. It remains one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history, claiming more than 8,000 lives.

My curiosity about weather and our ability to forecast it led me to an internet site prepared by staff of the National Weather Service Heritage Project, which provided a brief overview of the advancement of national weather forecasting. A national weather service began as far back as Feb. 2, 1870 when the U.S. Congress passed a resolution requiring the Secretary of War “to provide for taking meteorological observations at the military stations in the interior of the continent and at other points in the States and Territories … and for giving notice on the northern (Great) lakes and on the seacoast by magnetic telegraph and marine signals, of the approach and force of storms.” It was signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant. This first agency was formed under the U.S. Army Signal Service, a branch of the War Department, because “military discipline would probably secure the greatest promptness, regularity, and accuracy in the required observations.” During the Signal Service years, little meteorological science was used to make weather forecasts. Instead, weather that occurred at one location was assumed to move into the next area downstream. Weather forecasts were simple and general.

In July of 1891, responsibility for weather forecasting was transferred to the Department of Agriculture, was renamed the Weather Bureau, and became a civilian responsibility. Over the course of the next 50 years, considerable advancements were made in the science of meteorology. In earlier years, information gained from surface weather observations was used to predict weather conditions. Early meteorologists knew that conditions in the upper atmosphere actually controlled surface weather conditions, but technology had not advanced to the point of taking upper atmospheric observations. By 1900, kites were being used to gather information from the upper atmosphere, such as temperature, relative humidity, and winds. Eventually, kites became a hazard to airplanes, which next assumed the responsibility for the necessary atmospheric measurements. But airplanes proved to be expensive and dangerous.

Sounding balloons (radiosondes) carrying meteorological instruments and radio transmitters eventually replaced the airplanes. The radiosonde was a relatively inexpensive instrument which allowed the upper atmosphere to be sampled routinely and in both good and bad weather simultaneously. Consequently, the science of weather forecasting began to improve steadily and substantially. The introduction of the teletype system allowed the information gathered to be sent to over 32,000 miles of the country by the mid-1930s. The initiation of air mail flights and the general increase of aviation activity after World War I created a larger demand for flying weather forecasts. The passage of the Air Commerce Act of 1926 made the Weather Bureau responsible for weather services to civilian aviation and provided funds to establish a network of stations across the entire country to take surface and upper-air weather observations.

In June 1940, President Franklin Roosevelt transferred the Weather Bureau to the Department of Commerce where it remains today. Throughout WWII, the meteorological services increased dramatically along with the Bureau’s support to aviation in general. The post-war years brought radar meteorology and the use of computer models of the upper atmosphere. The way was paved for the formulation of complex mathematical weather models to aid in forecasting, which greatly increased accuracy.

By 1960, the first weather satellite was introduced, and the importance of forecasting weather worldwide became apparent. In the 1970s, geostationary weather satellites were launched that provided continuous observation over much of the western hemisphere. The Weather Bureau became known as the National Weather Service and was placed under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, within the Department of Commerce, where it remains today. Technology and automation continued to expand through the use of radar. And, eventually, meteorologists and hydrologists were required to have specific degrees in their fields. Additionally, ongoing training was required in new techniques and systems that ensured better and more rapid detection of storms and the delivery of timely forecasts and warnings to the public.

The final piece to the puzzle of weather forecasting came in answer to the question, “So how do we make sure the information we are providing is put to good use?” The concept of building a weather-ready nation was implemented. The key to creating a prepared, resilient nation is connecting forecasts to the life-saving decisions that allow communities to withstand them. Weather forecasts are now systematically delivered to emergency managers and public safety officials who are trained to mobilize their respective communities to withstand Mother Nature’s wrath.

So, whether or not we like the forecast, we can better appreciate both the technology and those who use it in predicting our weather. They keep us better prepared to enjoy Mother Nature’s gifts as well as her temper tantrums. Hopefully, “She” will be smiling on us soon and sending us flowers and green grass.

NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

Freeman’s has resumed small group activities. Visitation is currently being allowed twice weekly with screening and COVID-19 testing required before entering the building. All precautions are still being taken to protect residents. Everyone has adjusted to this new normal; however, they are all looking forward to a great get-together when it is safe to do so.

Sunday: Church on TV, 9 a.m.; look on the cart in the activity room, 2 p.m.

Monday: Funny story making, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:45 a.m.; let’s race horses, 2 p.m.; hall visits, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Exercise fun, 10 a.m.; music/dance, 11:45 a.m.; game of choice, 2:30 p.m.; group chat, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Resident council, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:30 a.m.; lucky 7, 1:30 p.m.; coffee talk, 2:30 p.m.

Thursday: Exercise fun, 10 a.m.; music/dancing, 11:30 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; movie “Babe,” 3 p.m.

Friday: Coffee/current events, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:45 a.m.; game choice, 1:30 p.m.; noodle ball, 2:30 p.m.

Saturday: Relax/color an animal, 10 a.m.; let’s do a word search puzzle, 2 p.m.; “Antiques Roadshow,” 6 p.m.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

Crystal Falls

906-874-1501

Sunday: Room visits, 9 a.m.; storytelling, 10 a.m.; chair exercise, 11 a.m.; bingorama, 2 p.m.

Monday: Crafts, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; hot cocoa and cookies, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Room visits, 9 a.m.; book club, 10 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 10 a.m.; travel film, 1:30 p.m.; garden club 2 p.m.; musical movie, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Community breakfast, 8:30 a.m.; trivia teasers, 10:30 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; current events, 2 p.m.; night bingo, 6 p.m.

Thursday: Puzzler, 9:30 a.m.; bowling, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1 p.m.; wildlife film, 1:30 p.m.; United Lutheran, 2 p.m.; happy hour, 2:30 p.m.

Friday: Memory books, 9-10:30 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; mystery ride, 1 p.m.; Scattegories, 2 p.m.; western movie, 6 p.m.

Saturday: ICMCF word search/room visits, 9 a.m.; Hangman, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; social hour, 2 p.m.

ProMedica (formerly Manor Care)

Kingsford

906-774-4805

The center is now open for visitation. There is no longer a need to call in advance of your visit.

Sunday: Name that Easter, 10 a.m.; Easter cookie cart, 11 a.m.; Easter bingo, 1 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 2 p.m.

Monday: Wet your whistle, 9 a.m.; exercise, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Wet your whistle, 9 a.m.; chair yoga, 10 a.m.; manicures, 11 a.m.; storyteller social, 2 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Wet your whistle, 9 a.m.; donut social, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; flip-o, 2 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 3 p.m.

Thursday: Wet your whistle, 9 a.m.; exercise, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; Yahtzee/games, 2 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 3 p.m.

Friday: Wet your whistle, 9 a.m.; all about Earth, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 3 p.m.

Saturday: Go fish, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; coloring, 1 p.m.; movie in the lobby, 2 p.m.

Maryhill Manor Nursing Home

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Church services are five days each week. Visitation is allowed as long as all infection control guidelines are followed, including wearing a mask, washing hands and social distancing. Daily scheduled activities continue to be for residents only.

Sunday: Coffee and trivia, 10:15 a.m.; Easter bingo, 2 p.m.

Monday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; Protestant service, 9 a.m.; help your neighbor, 10:15 a.m.; pamper and polish, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; hot cocoa and book club, 10:15 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; Yahtzee, 10:15 a.m.; creative art, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; Uno, 10:15 a.m.; nickel joker-eno, 2 p.m.

Friday: Baking-dirt cups, 10:15 a.m.; happy hour and music, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Spelling bee, 10:30; movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Florence Health Services

(formerly Golden Living Center)

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

Visitation is allowed seven days a week in designated areas only. Each visit is limited to 30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. All visitors will be subject to health screening before entering the facility. There are no group activities at the present time.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; ladder ball, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; music with Pastor Jim; 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Thursday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; “Wheel of Fortune,” 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Pinecrest Medical

Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Bunco, 10:30 a.m.; Catholic mass, 1 p.m.; Phase 10, 3 p.m.

Monday: Resident council, 10:30 a.m.; crafts, 2 p.m.; karaoke, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Tea party, 10:30 a.m.; bingo, 1:45 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Lunch outing, 10:30 a.m.; wine and cheese, 2 p.m.; Sorry, 3:30 p.m.; board games, 6 p.m.

Thursday: Spa treatments, 10:30 a.m.; Protestant service, 2 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Friday: Bingo, 10:30 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 2 p.m.; games, 3:30 p.m.; mind joggers, 6 p.m.

Saturday: Ladder ball, 10 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; rosary, 3:30 p.m.

SENIOR CENTERS

Alpha-Mastodon Center

906-875-3315

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11:30. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Beef stroganoff, noodles, carrots, broccoli salad

Wednesday: Sausage and sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, corn, lettuce salad

Thursday: Pork roast, mashed potatoes, California blend vegetables, coleslaw

Note: All meals include milk, bread and butter, fruit and dessert

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at noon. Night meals are on hold indefinitely. Carryout meals are available. Soup and salad bar are also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Pastie pie, stewed tomatoes

Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, California blend vegetables

Wednesday: Liver or sausage, parsley potatoes, mixed vegetables

Thursday: Cheeseburger, french fries, baked beans

Friday: Eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, biscuits

Note: All meals served with a choice of skim milk or juice and fruit

Crystal Falls Center

Head cook: Sterling Peryam

Assistant cook: Rocky Scarlassara

906-875-6709

The center is now open and is once again serving meals for dine-in or takeout — call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or to place your order. All food is purchased from local vendors. All dinners include salad bar, homemade desserts, coffee, tea, or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pickup for takeout meals is 4 p.m. – call ahead and leave a message with phone number. A volunteer will deliver meals to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Pork chops, mashed potatoes, vegetables

Wednesday: Spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, vegetables

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235.

Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Sweet and sour chicken, rice, Oriental vegetables

Tuesday: Macaroni and cheese with ham, broccoli, dinner roll

Wednesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, butter and brown sugar carrots

Thursday: Cheeseburger, fries, baked beans

Friday: Egg salad sandwich, chips, yogurt, treat

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice, or no beverage

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Barbecue pork, coleslaw, chips

Tuesday: Pizza, salad, peaches

Wednesday: Evening meal – Glazed ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, baked beans, scalloped corn

Note: All meals served with skim milk or juice

Aging and Disability Resource Center

Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Director: Tiffany White

Restrictions have lifted at some centers — see below. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chicken fettucini alfredo, broccoli florets, side salad, fruit

Tuesday: Sweet and sour pork, rice, Oriental vegetables, fruit

Wednesday: Liver and onions or chicken breast, mashed potatoes, candied carrots, fruit, brownies

Thursday: Turkey ranch wrap, tomato soup, coleslaw, fruit

Friday: Enchilada bake, refried beans, corn, fruited Jell-O

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk

Fence Center/Town Hall

715-336-2980

RSVP for meal at 855-528-2372

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on Wednesday only.

Florence Community Center/Town Hall

RSVP for meal at 715-528-4261

Same as ADRC menu. Open Tuesday through Thursday this week serving at 11:30 a.m.

Bingo on Tuesday – 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Tipler Town Hall

RSVP for meals at 715-674-2320

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on second Thursday only.

Hillcrest Senior Dining Center, Aurora

RSVP for meals at 715-589-4491

Same as ADRC menu. Now open, served at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Thursday – Bingo, 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Barb Peters

906-498-7735

Now open — information coming soon.

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11 a.m., with salad bar available. No night meals. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Hamburger, potato wedges, waxed beans

Tuesday: Ham and scalloped potatoes, peas and carrots, dinner roll

Wednesday: Chicken club wrap, chips, cottage cheese

Thursday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, corn, dinner roll

All meals served with milk or juice and a serving of fruit.

Niagara Senior Center/Café

715-251-1603

Now open for dine-in eating — dinner is served at 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Reservations are required one day in advance. Suggested donation is $4.50 for those older than 60 and $7 for those age 60 or younger. Bingo is played at the center on Wednesdays. Transportation is available.

Monday: Hamburger on a bun with tomato and lettuce, potato salad, fruit, cookie

Tuesday: Baked fish, potatoes, baked beans, cake

Wednesday: Baked chicken, dressing, sweet potatoes, applesauce

Thursday: Beef and macaroni hot dish, corn, whole wheat dinner roll, lemon bar

Norway Center

Head cook: Brian Gutkowski. 

906-563-8716

Now open for dine-in eating served restaurant style beginning at 11:15 a.m. Salad bar available from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Takeout meals will remain available for pick-up from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Let staff know if planning to dine in or pick up. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chicken divan over noodles, broccoli

Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, egg noodles, spinach

Wednesday: Two Meal Day – 11 a.m., chef salad with vegetables and meat, breadstick; 4 p.m., barbecue ribs, mashed potatoes, vegetables, soup

Thursday: Turkey burger, wedges, sugar snap peas

All meals include milk, juice, fruit, bread and dessert

Regular activities at the center include —

Mondays and Thursdays: Exercise at 10 a.m. and card bingo after the meal

Monday through Thursday: Card game 101 from noon to 3 p.m.; call Joe at 906-563-5587 for information

Tuesdays: Quilting and sewing

Wednesdays: Ceramics and crocheting

Last Monday of each month: Book club, 9 a.m.

Second Thursday of each month: Birthdays and bingo

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Chicken and rice soup, carrots, mixed fruit

Wednesday: Cheeseburger, potato wedges, corn, peaches

Thursday: Pork roast, mashed potatoes, peas, pears

All meals served with an option of milk, juice or no beverage.