Courtesy photo The Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine #730 Authority recently began a partnership with the Community Foundation for Delta County. Shown are authority members Steve Viau secretary, Pete DeHaan board member, Howard Keeton, treasurer, John Pickard president, Will Carne Sr. Community Foundation trustee and John Norkooli vice president of the authority.

ESCANABA — The Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine #730 Authority announces its new partnership with the Community Foundation for Delta County (CFFDC).

The Community Foundation for Delta County is able to help the community in so many ways, including partnering with the Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine #730 Authority to help with the restoration and upkeep of a Delta County historical exhibit and sight. Currently owned by the City of Gladstone, after being donated by the now historic Soo Line Railroad in 1960, this Steam Engine has greeted tourist and Rail fans young and old for a generation and continues to be a Delta County Landmark for all to enjoy.

Funding is still being sought for paint and painting next summer. Painting will be done by the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 10-11 of the Upper Peninsula.

“The Community Foundation for Delta County (CFFDC) goal is to make Delta County a better place to work, play and live,” said John Pickard, authority president. “I know that teaming up with the CFFDC will be a win/win for my Authority and the City of Gladstone for the long-term perpetual care of this Delta County historical landmark.”

“The Community Foundation for Delta County is happy to hold the funds for the Gladstone Michigan Soo Line Steam Engine #730 Authority,” said Cheryl Andzejewski, executive director of the CFFDC. “If you’d like to learn more about how you can help and make a difference in our community, please contact the community foundation by calling 906-786-6654 or emailing office@cfup.org.