Airing Out the W.C. Peterson Auditorium

Enjoying a well attended performance at our W.C. Peterson Auditorium can be a warm experience.  Our 73 year old air handling system with it's huge, noisy, exhaust fan can't be used during performances and the stale air warms up quickly.

For two years, the Ishpeming High School Alumni Association's Board of Directors has been looking for a solution.  They've worked with Johnson Controls on improving air handling (first phase) and total air conditioning (second phase) and find there is a way to complete the air handling portion at a reasonable cost.  The total project (air conditioning) doesn't seem to be cost effective at this time.

The Alumni Association's Board of Directors supports the installation of a new exhaust fan that would be installed on the roof of the auditorium.  The fan would have technical instrumentation allowing it to run very efficiently, including a frequency drive and accuators.  This exhaust system will work in conjunction with the input air handling system located beneath the the stage to force outside air up through the plenum (the open area beneath the auditorium floor) and through the diffusers in the floor.  This system would be integrated with future air conditioning that may be installed and is necessary to this future system.  In the meantime, audiences will no longer be required to sit in stale air.

The Alumni Association has taken on the task of fundraising for this first phase in the amount of $25,000.  We ask for your generous support in this effort.  If the Alumni Association receives more than the amount required, the donations will go towards other auditorium improvements (i.e. sound and lighting equipment). 

Tax-deductible contribution checks can be made to: 

Ishpeming School District No. 1

and be mailed to:

Ishpeming High School Alumni Association

Auditorium Project

319 E. Division Street

Ishpeming, MI 49849

Thank you for your support!