MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The U.P. 200 is only 2 weeks away, and the volunteers who make this race possible are making their final preparations for the big night.
As one of the most popular events in the U.P., crowd control and safety are top concerns. Assisting in that job are criminal justice students from Northern Michigan University.
“We provide upwards of 25 to 30 of our students who are really a help to the citizens downtown and the whole event, and it’s a great time,” said Christopher MacMaster, a criminal justice instructor at Northern Michigan University.
Over two dozen CJ students will be out in force, making sure everyone remains safe. Officials stress the importance of common sense.
“Dress warm, hats, gloves, and then when you get there, just mind the barriers. Stay behind the barriers, because those teams are going by pretty fast,” said MacMaster.
Wearing yellow vests, the student volunteers will be clearly visible along the route through downtown. McMaster advises situational awareness. If you see something, say something.
“By all means. Reach out and, you know, let us know, and then we can hopefully get that resolved,” said MacMaster.
Of particular concern is people crossing the route in front of the dogs.
“Please just use the designated areas to cross. I mean, when no dog sleds are coming, that’s when you can use those areas. Please don’t duck underneath the barricades. That’s not a good thing. There’s always a risk for injury there,” said NMU criminal justice student Hunter Nysen.
NMU’s ethos is deeply rooted in service to the community. A perfect fit for these C.J. students,
“It’s very rewarding. I’d say any time, being able to go out and help and serve, I think everyone should, in their lifetime, serve in some way, in some aspect,” explained Nysen.
And so we say, thank you to the volunteers from NMU keeping Marquette’s premier winter event safe for everyone.
