U.P. businesses receive recognition for COVID-19 help

At the height of COVID-19, a few U.P. businesses stepped up and helped out in unconventional ways.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recognized seven businesses across the peninsula for “helping the state survive the early days of COVID-19.”

From stopping liquor production to make hand sanitizer to making mask parts, the businesses got creative in ways to help out.

Randy Peterson of Crystal Steel House in Crystal Falls added mask nose pieces to their production line. From the height of the pandemic to the summer, he made nosepieces and donated them at mask drop-offs. He estimated to have made more than a thousand pieces.

“It was actually kind of rewarding,” said Peterson. “I feel honored. Not that I hope we can do it again, but if it ever comes around again, I will be more than willing to help.”

Crystal Steel House joins Beth Millner Jewelry, Iron Town Pasties, Jackson’s Pit, OK Industrial, Smarty’s Saloon and Stormy Kromer in being recognized.

200 businesses state-wide received recognition from the governor.

For a full list, visit Book1 (govdelivery.com).