Fiber Internet, Instantly

Summer is thriving in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Highline Internet remains committed to supporting our local events and initiatives. Here's a recap of our recent community engagements.

Menominee County Fair Sponsorship

We proudly sponsored the bounce house, enabling free jumps for all kids and adding extra fun to this family favorite.

UP Championship Rodeo Support

As a sponsor, our commercial aired on the videoboard, and we surprised families in line with complimentary tickets to enhance their experience.

Forsyth Firefighters Tournament

We sponsored this annual gathering, where firefighters compete in skill-based challenges like ladder climbs, and hosted a booth to connect with attendees.
 

Lake Michigamme Property Owners Association Meeting

We presented our fiber internet services to approximately 100 homeowners, fostering discussions on reliable connectivity for the area.

Escanaba Downtown Sidewalk Sales

We joined the fun and set up our Sales and Info Booth at our downtown office.

Music Monday Concert Series

We had a great time listening to Chris Powell in Escanaba and enjoyed talking with customers at our Sales and Info Booth.

Upcoming Events

Aug. 11-18: UP State Fair

FIRST RESPONDER OF THE MONTH

Congratulations Matt Rian: A Lifelong Guardian of Our Communities

We're thrilled to honor Matt Rian from the DNR Wildland Fire Department as our July 2025 First Responder of the Month! As a dedicated volunteer firefighter with Masonville and Ford River Townships, Matt exemplifies selfless service and unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

With over 20 years of firefighting experience split across Ensign, Ford River, Escanaba, and Masonville Townships, Matt has worn many hats. He served as Fire Chief for the Escanaba Township Fire Department for five years before landing his dream role in 2024 as a Fire Officer and Wildland Firefighter with the DNR. But his contributions don't stop there—Matt is a powerhouse of community involvement:

•    Volunteer with Delta County Ice Rescue Team: A search-and-rescue unit drawing volunteers from Gladstone, Ensign, and Masonville departments.

•    State Fire Instructor: Training the next generation of volunteer firefighters.

•    Division Coordinator for MAVAS: Part of Michigan's mutual aid system, assembling crews for major incidents like the recent paper mill fire in Menominee County.

•    Treasurer for the Delta County Fire Chiefs Association: Managing finances to support local fire services.

To put it mildly, Matt is an incredibly busy individual who pours his time, talent, and energy into safeguarding our communities!

What keeps Matt going? The strong sense of camaraderie in the volunteer and DNR fire departments. "It's like one big family," he shares. Whether battling blazes on-scene or training together, these teams build lasting bonds. Meeting firefighters from other departments expands this "first responder family," creating a network where help is just a call away. For many, the firehouse becomes a second home amid the hours spent working side by side.

Of course, the role isn't without its hardships. Matt candidly notes that the toughest calls—those involving injuries or fatalities—take a heavy mental and physical toll. This is especially true when the victims are known personally or resemble loved ones. Trauma can surface weeks, months, or even years later, leading to depression or isolation. It's a reminder of the emotional resilience required in this line of work.

The DNR Wildland Fire Department covers Menominee County, portions of Delta County up to the Whitefish River, and Dickinson County. In 2024 alone, they handled 59 wildland calls and about 26 structure fires. The team can deploy anywhere in Michigan and even out of state—to places like Canada, Texas, California, or Montana. Matt and his colleagues are trained to assemble crews for national emergencies, fostering connections with firefighters from across the country. This spring, Matt spent two weeks in Texas, collaborating with teams from Idaho, Connecticut, Colorado, and beyond.

Beyond his heroic duties, Matt enjoys a well-rounded life. He's an avid fisherman, duck and goose hunter, and former mechanic who loves tinkering with cars. He plays soccer and video games with his two kids, cherishing quality time with family.

Matt has an important message for anyone considering volunteering: "It's not as hard as people think. The initial class requires dedication, but if you're curious, come try it out—no obligation to stay. Spend 1–2 months and see if it fits; you can walk away anytime." Many departments are facing volunteer shortages, and younger generations are needed to step up. In rural areas without full-time responders, these volunteers mean the difference between minutes and hours for emergency help. Without them, our communities would be far less safe!

His nominator sums it up perfectly: “Right after graduating high-school in 2005, he dedicated his time as a first responder in the fire department! He also is on the ice rescue team! He is dedicated to helping others every chance he can get!”

Matt, thank you for your extraordinary service. You're a true inspiration to us all! If you know a deserving first responder, nominate them for next month's feature.

Updates in the Eastern UP 

OUT IN THE COMMUNITY

Highline actively participated in several events throughout the region, demonstrating our commitment to connectivity and local partnerships. Below is a summary of our activities.

Music Bingo

In collaboration with End of the Road Winery, Highline hosted an engaging session where over 30 attendees tested their musical knowledge while experiencing the speed of our gigabit fiber service.

Folk Fest

This two-day event in downtown Manistique featured outstanding musical performances, a variety of food trucks, and more than 75 vendors, providing enjoyment for attendees of all ages.

Music in the Park

Highline attended the summer concert series in Curtis, which included a performance by the Kate Hinote Trio.

Ice Cream Social

Partnering with Ice Cream Bandits in Newberry, Highline organized an event in our new cabinet space, offering participants information on Highline services alongside complimentary treats.

Schoolcraft County Fair!

This complimentary fair offered family-friendly activities, including rock climbing, bungee jumping, laser tag, bounce houses, and carnival rides, complemented by food trucks and skilled vendors.

SPONSORSHIPS

Highline proudly sponsored the following events to support vital community causes.

CBC Golf Outing

Highline sponsored this fun-filled day on the links that directly supports Schoolcraft County's longstanding mission to fund critical causes. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer, Bay Cliff Health Camp's programs for children with disabilities, and other essential local community charities like Beacon House.

Trout & Salmon Derby Sponsorship

The men's division awarded prizes for first-place salmon and trout, as well as positions two through eight in each category. The women's division recognized first through third places.

First Responder of the Month: Chris Hadfield

Chris Hadfield, a lifelong resident of the Upper Peninsula, has served his community for the past five years as a full-time police officer with the Manistique Sault Tribe. He also holds part-time positions with Schoolcraft County and Manistique Public Safety. In addition, Chris volunteers with the Manistique Fire Department.

He values the opportunity to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds, assisting them during challenging times and engaging with the community during positive events. Chris particularly enjoys bringing joy to children at local gatherings.

In his personal time, Chris pursues interests such as restoring vintage motorcycles and addressing mechanical challenges. During the summer, he maintains his property and spends time at the beach.

Thank you, Chris, for your dedication to your community. We appreciate your service!