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Editorial

A warm coat can make all the difference in U.P. winter

As biting winds return and snow begins approach the Upper Peninsula, most of us know where to turn for our winter coats, hats, gloves and boots. But for some of our neighbors, preparing for another long, cold winter is not so simple. The cost of adequate winter clothing can be a significant burden for struggling families, and people without stable housing face even greater challenges when temperatures plunge. That is why the many efforts across the Upper Peninsula to collect and distribute winter coats deserve our support. From the Michigan State Police’s annual coat drive to the free ...

Keeping invasive pests out of Michigan starts with firewood

It should have come as absolutely no surprise to anyone paying the least amount of attention, a recent state decision to quarantine out-of-state firewood as one viable way to battle invasive species and plant diseases. But beginning Jan. 1, that's what's going to happen. From where we sit, it's a great idea and one that has significant scientific underpinnings. The new policy was announced by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Michigan Invasive Species Program. Firewood may look harmless, but it can harbor pests and pathogens that are difficult to ...

Historic choice puts community first

The election of Warner Hocker as president of the Marquette Federation of Women’s Clubs was a first for the organization. At its annual meeting Oct. 21, the federation unanimously elected Hocker as its first male president. His nomination by outgoing president Amy Cherrette speaks volumes about the confidence he has earned among the members. The decision also sends a positive message: While the federation honors its roots in women’s civic leadership, it recognizes that advancing its mission depends on commitment, character and a willingness to serve. As Cherrette noted, Hocker has a ...

Guest opinion

The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is encouraging Michiganders to prepare now for the upcoming Open Enrollment period. Nearly 497,000 Michigan residents are currently enrolled in health insurance through HealthCare.gov. With recent federal changes leading to higher health insurance costs, it is especially important for consumers to plan ahead, whether they intend to enroll in a new plan during Open Enrollment or reenroll in their existing coverage, DIFS advised. "With the November 1 start of Open Enrollment approaching, now is the best time for Michiganders to ...

Federal fire grants are investment in regional safety

The more than $2.1 million in federal fire grant funding headed to Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan communities is welcome news — and a reminder that protecting our residents begins with ensuring our firefighters have the equipment, training and staffing they need to do their jobs. For communities across the U.P., where rural distances, harsh winters and limited infrastructure can complicate emergency responses, these grants are more than financial assistance. They are investments in public safety, the people who provide it and the communities that depend on them. Seven Upper ...

Guest editorial

"The Tab Man" Jim Brolin of Florence, Wis., is still collecting pop tabs. I have teamed up with Stacey Lantagne of Florence to support families served by the Ronald McDonald House. Stacey's family has a personal connection to the cause. Several years ago, her family spent a month in Milwaukee when her grandson, Ezra, unexpectedly became critically ill. During that difficult time, her daughter and son-in-law, Kelsey and Skylar Newman of Kingsford, were able to stay at the nearby Ronald McDonald House while their 2-year-old son fought for his life next door at Children's ...