ASNMU is turning a new page as Justin Bis, chairman of assembly of ASNMU, has resigned.

The decision was one Bis said was essential in keeping up the productivity of ASNMU this semester.

“We just have to keep the momentum going,” Bis said. “It’s why I had to step down because I don’t think I can keep up with the pace of the ASNMU, and I don’t want to be an obstruction.”

Bis said his resignation was due to prior arrangements that kept him from fulfilling his duties as chairman.

“The reason why I’m resigning is because I’m trying to graduate this December, and I’m having to do 22 credits, which is going to be a mean feat, and additionally on that I also got a job lined up for after I graduate, and they want me to start right now. So I’m more or less working full time and working 22 credits.”

ASNMU President Amber Lopota also said that Bis’ resignation would not end on a negative note for ASNMU.

“It was a surprise for us all and I think that we lost a very talented individual,” Lopota said. “I think he has a lot of commitments and I do respect him for stepping up and saying ‘someone else could do this job more effectively than I,’ because some people might not.”

Until ASNMU can find an replacement, Vice President Abby Roche will be taking over the position Lopota said.

“Our Vice President Roche was a fantastic chairwoman for us last year and she certainly can step in and fulfill those duties flawlessly until we can find an internal candidate,” Lopota said. “Being that this was a surprise for us all, I anticipate some careful consideration for a candidate.”

ASNMU has yet to vote in a new chair of assembly as of the Tuesday, Sept. 24 meeting.

Another issue that ASNMU is addressing is the Eagle Mine Trucking route that will be making its way along NMU’s campus on Sugarloaf Avenue and Wright Street in 2014.

Vito Giannola, academic affairs chairman, said the first step is getting students aware of the situation.

“What’s important right now is mobilizing the students, letting them know what’s going to happen,” Giannola said. “The next steps are going into safety procedures; that will include crosswalk lights and altering the timing of the lights at Sugarloaf Avenue and Wright Street.”

Giannola said ASNMU is also considering having a public forum for students to voice their opinions.

Lopota said spreading the word immediately is essential, especially because there are nearly 10,000 students  at NMU that need to be informed of the new mining truck route.

“They really need to consider what seasonally this is going to entail for them,” Lopota said. “Think about what it’s like right now while it’s perfect out, think about what it’s maybe going to be like when there’s a foot of snow that’s unplowed.”

The next step depends on student involvement, Lopota said.

“I think this is going to have to come from the student body what they want to see happen, what do they want and then that’s the direction we’ll take.”

ASNMU is also sponsoring the Wildcat Market, a marketplace for students to sell handmade items. Lopota said the market is a great experience for students to serve the students.

“I will always advocate for a student to take an entrepreneurial spirit,” Lopota said. “I think its really important to learn what it takes to make money, and early on. College is a good opportunity for that.”

The first Wildcat Market will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 in the University Atrium.

Students interested in ASNMU can attend meetings at 7 p.m. every Tuesday in the Charcoal Room, which is on  the second floor of the University Center.